Your home’s foundation is one of the most critical aspects of your property. It’s responsible for supporting the rest of your home, so it’s essential to make sure it’s healthy and in good condition. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on keeping and maintaining a healthy foundation. Follow these tips, and you can ensure that your foundation will last for years to come!
Keep the ground moist: Moisture is always a subject of debate for foundation professionals. Some claim that moisture is suitable for your foundation, while others disagree. In reality, a certain amount of moisture is ideal for your foundation. But water it too much, and the soil around your foundation will start to move. The level of moisture also depends on the geographical location of your house. If you live in dry areas, it might be a good idea to maintain a certain level of moisture in your foundation, but if you leave in areas with high levels of moisture in the soil, excess moisture can ruin your foundation.
Monitor and Manage Drainage: One of the most important things you can do to keep your foundation healthy is monitoring and managing drainage. Poor drainage is one of the leading causes of foundation problems. Ensure that water is draining away from your foundation, not towards it. You can do this by making sure your gutters are clean and in good condition and ensuring that there is a slope around your property that allows water to drain away from the foundation.
Be proactive about maintenance: The best way to keep your foundation healthy is to be proactive about maintenance. Have a professional inspect your foundation every few years to check for potential problems. Be sure to fix any cracks or other damage as soon as possible, as minor issues can quickly turn into big ones if left unchecked.
Repair any known plumbing issues: One of the most common causes of foundation problems is plumbing issues. If you have any known plumbing leaks or issues, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible. Ignoring these problems will only make them worse and can eventually lead to significant damage to your foundation.
Keep an eye on the weather: The weather can also have a massive impact on your foundation. Extreme temperatures can cause the ground to shift, putting stress on your foundation. Be sure to monitor the forecast and take action if there is a chance of severe weather in your area.
Watch out for tree roots: There is a reason why you should not plant large trees too close to the house. The roots can reach the foundation and warp around it. In time, the roots take complete hold of the foundation and can cause it to crumble. If you already have trees on your property, be sure to have them regularly inspected by a professional to ensure they are not causing any damage. Alternatively, you could also try removing the trees or shifting them elsewhere.
Check your thermostats, especially when you go on vacations: When you go on vacation, it’s essential to make sure your thermostats are set to a reasonable temperature. The foundation can freeze and crack if you leave the house at a very low temperature.
Look for cracks and bowing in the walls: Another sign that there may be something wrong with your foundation is a crack in the walls or bowing of the walls. These are usually caused by water damage or poor drainage. If you see any of these signs, it’s essential to have a professional inspect your foundation as soon as possible.
Lower flower beds: One way to help keep the foundation of your home healthy is to lower flower beds. When flower beds are too high, they can stress the foundation and cause it to sink or crack.
Install a French drain: If you have a lot of water drainage problems, one solution is to install a French drain. A French drain is a trench filled with gravel that helps redirect water away from your house and foundation.
Conduct regular foundation audits: The best way to keep your foundation healthy is to conduct regular audits. This will help you catch any potential problems before they turn into bigger ones. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Avoid DIY repairs at all costs: One of the worst things you can do is try to fix foundation problems yourself. Unless you are a professional, it’s best to avoid any DIY repairs. Trying to fix foundation problems on your own can often make the situation worse and can end up costing you more in the long run.
Keep in mind that the best way to protect your foundation is by being proactive about maintenance and taking action as soon as you notice any signs of damage. By following these tips, you can be sure that the foundation of your home will stay healthy for years to come!
