Home Foundation Maintenance: Did you know that a home’s most common structural issues come from failing foundations? A failing foundation means you have more to worry about than just structural issues. You also have to worry about your family’s safety inside your home.
Think about the damage that has been done to some homes over the last year. Can you imagine having your home fall apart around your family? Don’t wait for it to happen.
Home foundation maintenance doesn’t have to be a big, scary task though. Here is a basic guide to help you keep your foundation in prime shape.
Assessing the Integrity of Your Home Foundation Maintenance
Assessing the integrity of your home’s foundation is essential to basic home maintenance. Check the area around the foundation for signs of cracking or failing mortar, which may indicate that the foundation needs to be stabilized.
Inspect concrete patios and other outdoor slabs for any sinking or heaving. Look for puddles of water around the foundation and make sure all gutters and downspouts are directed away from the house to avoid potential water damage. Inspect window and door frames for any cracks or visible separation from the walls.
Contact a qualified inspector if you see any signs of home foundation cracks that may affect the integrity of your foundation and suggest the best course of action.
Examining the Grade Around Your Home
Examining the grade around your home is one of the most important aspects of basic home foundation maintenance. A gradual erosion of soil can lead to water infiltration and eventually lead to a damaged foundation.
To properly examine the grade, walk around the house in a clockwise direction and look for any signs of soil erosion- settling, cracking, uneven slopes, etc. Pay extra close attention to the areas around foundation walls and downspouts, and make sure that the soil is sloping away from the home.
Identifying and Addressing Water Damage
Whether you’re facing a burst pipe or a leaky roof, if the water damage is too large or progresses for too long, it can compromise the foundation and cause it to tilt, sink, or even crack.
As a homeowner, you should regularly inspect your home for signs of water damage. Look for moisture on walls, warping floorboards, or flaking paint around windows, as these can all indicate water damage. If you discover any signs of water damage, it’s important to assess the extent and address the issue immediately to minimize costly repairs.
Regular Inspection of the Home Foundation Maintenance
Regular home foundation inspections can be done every 6-12 months or so, depending on the climate and terrain of the area.
Start with a visual inspection of the outside of your house, looking for any signs of cracking, leaning, or settling. If any of these issues are visible, contact a professional for further evaluation and repairs.
Inside the home, look for any discoloration, warping, or bulging of the walls that may indicate structural issues. Contact a structural engineer if any issues cannot be identified and corrected.
Prevention is Better Than Cure – Proper Home Foundation Maintenance
Maintaining a home foundation is key to the long-term health of any house. By following the tips in this guide, homeowners can effectively keep their foundation and its essential components in peak condition. Remember, regular maintenance is key! So don’t wait.
Start taking steps today to ensure your foundation and home stay strong for years to come.
For more great articles, check out the rest of our site!