7 Foundation protection measures for your home
The foundation of your home provides stability for the structure. If you know what to do to take care of it, you should be able to save on costly projects down the line. Home foundations can be vulnerable to a number of things, such as high winds and floods, which can cause it to fail. To avoid costly repairs or even worse, major foundation failure, there are some preventative measures that homeowners should take.
Proper Slope
There are a few different types of slope, including camber, pitch, and grade. Camber is the amount that the ground slopes away from the house, typically measured in inches per foot. Pitch refers to the slope of the ground from horizontal, while grade describes the slope from vertical.
Proper slope to protect your home’s foundation depends on your geographical location and climate. In hot, dry climates where there is a risk of fire, the ground might be sloped away from the structure in the front and toward the structure in the back. In cold climates, the ground might be sloped away from the house in the front and toward the house in the back. In both cases, proper slope helps prevent water from seeping into the foundation.
Water Drainage System
Without proper drainage, water from rainfall or melting snow can leak into your foundation, causing long-term complications. Protect your home’s foundation by installing a surface drain or by placing gutters and downspouts at least 6 feet away from the foundation.
Keep Moisture Away
Excess moisture is a primary cause of foundation problems. If moisture remains in the ground around your foundation, it can eventually lead to cracks and sinking. When this happens, foundation repair becomes a costly and time-consuming project. The best way to keep moisture away from the foundation is by installing a perimeter drainage system to remove water and direct it away from your home.
Plumbing System Inspection
The plumbing in your home plays an important role in maintaining your foundation. It is essential to have annual plumbing inspections performed by a licensed professional to ensure that the pipes are not leaking and to detect any potential problems early. Proper inspections help identify issues before they occur, providing peace of mind and protecting your home’s foundation.
Having a licensed plumber inspect your home’s plumbing is the best way to ensure that the system is functioning correctly and that no hidden problems are waiting to occur.
Foundation Slab Protection
There are several options to protect your slab foundation as recommended by most masonry contractors. One option is to pour a concrete slab on top of the existing slab, especially useful if you’re adding an addition to your home. Another option is to install a perimeter drainage system around the outside of your home to divert water away from the house and prevent moisture from accumulating under the slab.
The best way to protect a slab foundation is to install a vapor barrier on the inside of the foundation walls, which prevents moisture from seeping into the foundation wall and causing damage.
Ground Level
One of the simplest ways to protect your foundation is to ensure that the ground around your home is level. Uneven ground can cause your foundation to shift and crack, potentially leading to costly repairs. By taking the time to level the ground around your home, you can save a significant amount on foundation repairs in the future.
Landscape Intelligently
Another effective way to protect your foundation is to prevent soil erosion around your home by planting native shrubs, trees, grasses, and ground cover. These plants help maintain the moisture level in the soil by absorbing excess water during rainy days. However, avoid planting them too close to the walls of your house, as their roots may weaken the foundation.