Tips for Protecting Your Foundation from Damage

The foundation of your home is one of the most essential components. It is responsible for bearing the weight of the structure and maintaining the structural integrity of your home. It is constantly under threat from things like shifting soil, moisture, and the heavy weight of the foundation. So, you must take precautionary steps to protect your foundation from damage. Below, we will explore some things you can do to protect your foundation.

• Proper Drainage: Moisture is the leading cause of foundation damage. Poor drainage around your foundation will expose it to moisture much more than it would otherwise be. Make sure that you have gutters and downspouts installed on your home. Be sure to keep them clean and clear of debris to prevent clogs that can lead to water spilling over and falling towards your foundation. You may also want to consider installing French drains around your home for improved yard drainage.

• Grade the Landscape: The slope of the ground around your home plays a crucial role in preventing water from accumulating near the foundation. When a landscape is graded away from the home, it helps prevent the pooling of water around the foundation. If necessary, consult a grading contractor to grade your landscape to help direct water safely away from your home.

• Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: When gutters and downspouts get clogged and overflow, the water falls around your home and pools around the foundation. This can damage the concrete that your foundation is made from, leading to cracks and flooding basements. Be sure to regularly clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and overflows.

• Foundation Waterproofing: Your main concern should be preventing moisture from penetrating your foundation and minimizing moisture exposure. Consider having a waterproofing sealant or coating applied to the foundation. You may also consider having a sump pump installed to pump away any water that makes it inside your basement or crawlspace.

• Proper Landscape Maintenance: Tree roots can grow and exert extra pressure on your foundation, causing cracks. When you are installing shrubs and trees, maintain a safe distance between them and your foundation to prevent any extra pressure from being put on your foundation. Also, keep up with the maintenance of the trees and shrubs to ensure they grow healthily, and no branches overhang your home.

• Monitor and Address Plumbing Issues: Keep a constant eye on your plumbing system. If a leak or loose connection happens, it can cause water to leak undetected in your home. This can lead to significant water damage to your foundation and other areas of your home. Being proactive and routinely checking your plumbing helps catch any issues early and quickly repair them before any water damage can occur.

• Regular Foundation Inspections: Schedule regular inspections of your foundation by a professional. They can identify any signs of damage or potential issues early on, allowing for timely repairs and maintenance. Early detection can help prevent significant problems from arising and costly repair bills in the future.

• Avoid Excessive Watering: We all want beautiful green lawns for our homes. This means regularly watering them to ensure that our grass is hydrated and healthy. However, you must be cautious about overwatering them. Watering them too much will keep the grass from being able to effectively absorb the water which will then likely make its way towards your foundation.