Protecting your home's foundation is essential to its longevity and structural integrity. Without a solid foundation, your home will become vulnerable to water and structural damage, leading to costly repairs. Meanwhile, a recent UK survey showed that you might spend around £7,500 to £9,500 to get your foundation repaired. The figure is a lot, especially when you can do a few things to ensure your home's foundation remains strong and stable for years to come. Read on to learn 5 ways to protect your home's foundation.
Monitor for moisture and cracks
Water infiltration is one of the biggest threats to your home's foundation. Moisture can enter through cracks or weak points in the foundation and can also be caused by inadequate drainage around the house, water pooling near the foundation, or inadequate waterproofing. Over time, your home's foundation may develop cracks or structural damage due to age or shifting soils. Monitor your foundation for excess moisture to prevent water from entering your home. Look for signs of water damage, such as discolouration, cracking, or leaking. If you spot any of these, contact a qualified contractor for an inspection and repairs.
Check the grading
The grading around your home is important for preventing water from seeping into your foundation. The idea is to ensure that the ground slopes away from the house, so water can drain away from the foundation and not pool around it. Make sure the soil is graded away from your home so that surface water runs away from the foundation. If the soil is too flat, or if there is a lot of vegetation near the foundation, water may pool around the foundation and cause damage. Hiring a landscaping expert to inspect your home and ensure proper grading would be best.
Install gutters
Gutters are an effective way to direct water away from your foundation. Make sure your gutters are accurately installed and in good condition. They should be cleaned regularly to ensure they are not clogged. Water can collect around the foundation when it can't flow away from your property. When this water expands and freezes during the cold months, it might break your foundation. Fortunately, you can rely on local expert gutter cleaning services to maintain your home foundation and structural integrity.
Invest in foundation repair
If your foundation has sustained significant damage, it may require more extensive repairs. Investing in professional foundation repair can help restore the structural integrity of your home and prevent further damage. Professional foundation repair contractors are experienced and knowledgeable in the proper techniques to fix any foundation issues. They can also identify potential issues with your home's foundation and provide effective solutions to help protect your home's value and keep it safe and sound for years to come.
By taking these steps to protect your home's foundation, you can keep your home safe for many years. Be sure to monitor for moisture, check the grading, install gutters, inspect for cracks, and invest in foundation repair if needed. Doing so will help preserve the value of your home and prevent costly repairs.
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