Every home needs a strong foundation. You could deal with costly structural problems when this part of your property is in poor shape. Water damage, drywall cracks and sinking concrete structures are typical consequences of a failing foundation.
Keep your home’s foundation in excellent condition using these six tips from a trusted gutter contractor.
1. Maintain Proper Drainage Around Your Home
Excessive moisture can harm your home’s foundation. With improper drainage, rainwater or melted snow will accumulate around your house, saturating the soil. The ground around your property should slope away from the foundation. This natural gradient prevents ponding water and moisture infiltration.
2. Replace Your Old or Damaged Gutters
Are your gutters old or deteriorating? If so, don’t wait long before having them replaced. Well-installed high-quality gutters can protect various components of your home from extensive water damage, from the roof down to the foundation. They bring rainwater at a safe distance from your property. Also, consider extending your downspouts to reduce the likelihood of water seeping into your foundation.
3. Optimize Landscaping and Manage Water Runoff
Well-designed landscaping can do more than enhance your home’s curb appeal. It’s a strategic approach to protecting your foundation. Trees and shrubs shouldn’t be too close to your house to keep root systems from disrupting the soil and your foundation. Think about implementing a swale, a gentle ditch with a porous bottom, to facilitate water movement further away from your property.
4. Keep Your Gutter System in Top Shape
With proper maintenance, your gutters will stay in good condition and last longer. An efficient gutter system can do a better job of safeguarding your foundation. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and pool around your property. Experts recommend scheduling a cleaning service at least twice a year, preferably in spring and fall. Consider investing in high-quality gutter covers to make your gutters easier to maintain.
5. Manage Soil Moisture Levels
Equally important is keeping the soil moisture levels around your home consistent. Dry periods can cause soil to contract away from the foundation, creating gaps where water can pool and apply pressure. Conversely, overly wet soil can expand and exert pressure directly on your foundation walls. Using mulch can help prevent these issues, and adjusting your watering schedule can keep soil from drying out or becoming too saturated.
6. Monitor and Respond to Environmental Changes
Stay vigilant about changes in your property’s surroundings that could affect your foundation. New construction, alterations in neighboring properties, or even changes in municipal water management can significantly impact the water flow on or near your home. Responding promptly to these changes can prevent unforeseen damage to your foundation.
