Problems can develop even in the most well-built homes. Over time, foundation walls settle and crack due to Alberta’s harsh freeze/thaw cycle. Protective coatings that were applied during construction to help make the foundation watertight may deteriorate and/or crack simply due to age. Exterior drainage systems can also fill up with silt over time due to shifting & settlement which is an inevitable result of wet and dry seasons. Ultimately, homes that were originally built to be watertight can begin to leak without notice, while other homes may never leak throughout their lifetime.