There are many types of foundations in the world. Each one has its unique benefits, as well as its unique way of ensuring longevity. Some foundations are more fragile than others, while some can withstand even the harshest conditions, however, no matter what type of foundation you have, it’s important to make sure that it is taken care of properly.
Let’s look at the seven tips on how to do just that.
Inspect your foundation regularly
This is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your foundation’s longevity. You should inspect it at least once a year, but more often if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Look for cracks, settlement, and any other signs of damage and to any changes, no matter how small.
If you see any damage, don’t hesitate to call a professional for repairs. However, when choosing a trustworthy foundation repair services company, make sure they have experience with your type of foundation. For instance, if you have a pier and beam foundation, you’ll want to look for a company that specializes in this type of repair or has experience with it.
Ensure proper drainage
One of the leading causes of foundation damage is poor drainage because when water pools around your foundation, it can cause the ground to shift and settle, which will eventually lead to cracks. To avoid this, make sure that your gutters are clean and in good working condition.
Another way to ensure proper drainage is to grade the ground around your foundation so that it slopes away from the house. This will help keep water from pooling near your foundation.
If you suspect that your foundation already has drainage problems, you can have a French drain installed. This is a type of drainage system that helps redirect water away from your foundation.
Add support
If you have a pier and beam foundation, you may need to add additional supports to prevent the beams from sagging over time. This is especially important if your home is located in an area with high winds or earthquakes. You can also add support to a slab foundation by installing piers. This will help to prevent the slab from settling and cracking over time.
On the other hand, if your foundation is already showing signs of damage, you may need to have it replaced. For instance, if your foundation is made of brick, it may need to be replaced with a more durable material.
Waterproof your basement
If your home has a basement, it’s important to waterproof it to prevent water damage, especially if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or snow. This will help to keep your basement dry and free of mold and mildew which are both not only damaging to your foundation but to your health as well.
One way to waterproof your basement is to install a sump pump. This will help to remove any water that does manage to get into your basement, or you can have an interior drainage system installed. If your foundation is made of concrete, you can also have it waterproofed from the outside, however, if it’s made of brick, you’ll need to waterproof it from the inside.
Additionally, make sure that any vents in your basement are properly sealed and that there are no cracks or leaks in the walls or floors.
Be careful with landscaping
If you have any trees or shrubs near your foundation, be sure to keep them trimmed so that their roots don’t damage your foundation. Especially any large trees, as their roots can grow very deep and cause serious damage. In addition, avoid planting any new trees or shrubs too close to your foundation made of brick, as their roots can cause them to crack.
On the other hand, if you have a concrete foundation, you can plant trees and shrubs close to it as their roots can help to support your foundation. Make sure, however, that you choose plants that are not too invasive, such as bamboo, or willow trees, as their roots can grow too large and cause problems.
Additionally, their leaves can clog your gutters, or block your vents, which can lead to water damage and build up dampness in your basement.
Avoid doing any DIY foundation repairs
While it may be tempting to try to repair your foundation yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. They have the experience and knowledge to properly assess the damage and make the necessary repairs. They will also know what type of materials to use to ensure that your foundation is repaired properly and will last for many years to come.
For instance, if you have a concrete foundation, they will know whether to use epoxy or polyurethane to fill in any cracks. If you have a pier and beam foundation, they will know whether to replace the beams or install additional supports.
Trying to repair your foundation yourself can end up doing more harm than good and end up costing you more in the long run.
Reinforce your garage
If your home has a garage, it’s important to reinforce the supports, especially if you have a second story. This will help to prevent the garage from collapsing in the event of an earthquake or other disaster.
You can reinforce your garage by adding additional bracing or supports, or by having it resurfaced with a more durable material such as concrete. On the other hand, you can also have a new garage built that is specifically designed to withstand high winds and earthquakes, such as a metal one.
Ensuring the longevity of your foundation is important to protect your home and investment. There are many different types of foundations, and each has its own set of maintenance needs. For instance, concrete foundations need to be waterproofed, while pier and beam foundations need to be reinforced.
Whichever type of foundation you have, by waterproofing your basement, being careful with landscaping, and avoiding DIY foundation repairs, you can help to keep your foundation in good condition for many years to come. If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes or other disasters, it’s also important to reinforce your garage.
By taking these precautions, you can help to ensure that your home is safe and sound.
