A solid foundation is the one thing the strongest and most expensive homes have in common. A strong foundation can hold your house up and prevent cracks and structural damage. Several factors can cause such problems, and a study suggests that it could cost around $4,542 and possibly more if extensive damages exist. For this reason, it would be best to protect your foundation and leave your home in top shape. Here are a few inexpensive ways you can do that.
Regular home inspection
A simple walk around your house every few months may reveal signs of foundation problems. Some things to look out for include cracks, mold and mildew, pests, and drywall issues. When you notice your doors and windows separating from the walls or uneven floors, there is a possible problem with your home's foundation. While looking for these signs, ensure your brick, siding, wood, or exterior coverings are at least six inches above the bottom of the foundation.
Prevent water pooling
A heavy downpour may cause water to pool around your house. Look out for these areas, drain the water and fill them with suitable materials to prevent the problem from recurring. The water can cause soil to expand and put pressure on your foundation walls. So it can be useful to make necessary landscaping or drainage improvements to prevent water pooling. Your yard's grading should always slope away from your house and prevent runoff water from pouring toward your foundation. Alternatively, you can construct a swale channel to redirect water away from your home's foundation.
Clean and repair your gutters
It is recommended that you remove dirt and debris from your gutters at least twice every year. Avoid leaving them on the ground next to your house since it may cause water pooling. While ensuring your gutter is always clean, look out for cracks, gaps, and holes and ensure that it is appropriately pitched to ensure smooth water flow. Other elements such as roof moss can clog your gutters and cause water overflow to damage your landscaping, home foundation, and other interior damages. Fortunately, roof moss removal can help prevent this problem and save you thousands of dollars in expensive repairs.
Monitor foliage around the house
Foliage can potentially endanger the foundation of your home. For example, water-seeking roots can penetrate and crack your foundation and cause leaks and other moisture-related issues. Roots also shift the soil around your foundation, which opens up hollows within it. Additionally, your foundation may be exposed to root damage when trees are planted too close to the house, especially during a drought. It is advisable to remove plants or vines close to your house that may obstruct air circulation and trap excess moisture against your house when it rains. Additionally, try to avoid growing trees near your foundation. But if you must, ensure that it is done professionally. Also, do your research about the plants that won't grow invasive roots.
A home foundation issue can lead to significant structural damage and expensive repairs. Keeping an eye out for early problems and performing routine maintenance can prevent such issues.
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