Home Foundation Maintenance Tips
Your home’s foundation may not be as visible as the roof, but it is arguably the most important part. Therefore it needs care and maintenance like any other structural component. Foundation and egress window repair contractor Stratum Structural Systems shares maintenance tips for your home’s foundations.
Keep the Gutters Clean and Clog-Free
The primary function of gutter systems is to prevent rainwater from collecting on and around home foundations. Too much moisture in these areas can change the composition of the soil underneath. The clay layer may become too soft to support the weight of the house. Concrete—the mixture that most foundation materials are made of—readily absorbs moisture. Too much of it can make the foundations brittle.
Make sure you are keeping up with your scheduled gutter maintenance, and inspect your gutters at least twice a year. Clean and free-flowing gutters can help keep rainwater away from the areas where the house foundations are, and can help prevent unplanned and costly foundation repair work.
Conduct Regular Plumbing Inspections
Another often-overlooked source of water is leaky plumbing. Whether the leak is located indoors or outdoors, the water can seep into the house foundations one way or another. Leaks are, fortunately, easy to spot. A local handyman or plumber can help you fix it, or replace certain parts. It’s well worth remembering that when you fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible, not only do you avoid potentially costly water bills, you also help save your house foundations.
Inspect Your Home for Cracks
Conduct an annual inspection of your home, and look around for cracks in the walls. Start with the basement near the foundations, then work your way up the rest of the home. If the house had started to settle, there may also be cracks near the doorways and windows. Settling is a slow process, but you should nevertheless inform your foundation expert about it, and have it repaired while it’s in its early stages.
If you’re looking for foundation and basement repair contractors, turn to Stratum Structural Systems. Give us a call at telephone icon (314) 669-3030 or fill out our contact form.
