Hydrostatic pressure can exert force on a foundation wall significantly more than freeze-thaw effects, and the notion that it can be about ten times greater reflects the substantial impact of water pressure on structures. When water accumulates against a foundation wall, it exerts hydrostatic pressure that increases with the depth of the water. This pressure can be considerable and sustained, especially in areas with high rainfall or poor drainage.
In contrast, freeze-thaw conditions, while they can also cause damage to foundations, typically result in a more intermittent and less uniform force. The expansion and contraction of moisture within the soil as it freezes and thaws can lead to soil movement, but this effect is generally localized and not as uniformly distributed or as powerful as the constant pressure exerted by water.
Therefore, understanding the forces acting on foundation walls is crucial for assessing structural integrity. The comparative measure indicating hydrostatic pressure can exert force roughly ten times more than freeze-thaw effects highlights the need for proper drainage systems and waterproofing measures to protect foundations from potential water damage.