Regardless of the type of foundation that your home sits on, you may understandably assume that the foundation is as sturdy as it needs to be and that it is in great condition. However, all aspects of your home can develop issues over time, and this includes the foundation. Foundation damage can worsen quickly if it is not properly remedied, and this can have a detrimental impact on the structural integrity of the home. These steps will help you to better care for your home’s foundation.
Invest in Gutters
Without functional and well-maintained gutters, water from the roof will fall directly off of the roof near the foundation. Erosion may occur as a result of this. In addition, excessive moisture can cause soil movement around the foundation. This can lead to foundation movement. When you in invest in gutters and keep them maintained, you can prevent these types of issues from affecting your foundation.
Improve Landscaping
Landscaping design can also be a cause of erosion and excessive moisture around the foundation. For example, the ground may slope toward the foundation rather than away from the home. When it rains, water will run toward the foundation and pool up around the house. This can be just as detrimental to the foundation’s condition as a lack of gutters may be. Another landscaping issue that affects the foundation is when large trees are planted too close to the home. The roots can disrupt the stability and position of the foundation, and they may need to be removed.
Look for Signs of Damage
Another important step to take to care for your foundation is to identify signs of damage as soon as possible. You need to understand what some of the more common signs of foundation damage are, such as cracks in the slab and walls or doors and windows that sluggishly open and close. As soon as you identify possible damage, a foundation inspection should be completed.
Repair Damage Immediately
Through a professional foundation inspection, you may learn about damage that should be addressed. Many homeowners view this type of damage as a serious issue, and they may procrastinate working on it because of the perceived stress. This is a serious issue, and it can become more significant if you delay scheduling proper foundation repairs.
The condition of your home’s foundation is paramount to the home’s overall integrity and health. Each of these important steps plays an essential role in property foundation health and should be followed as needed.
