The foundation of your home is the most important part, and when there are issues with it, they need to be taken seriously.
Unfortunately, many people don’t take foundation issues very seriously until they have caused major damage and cost thousands of dollars in repairs.
This doesn’t have to be the case though! By taking steps now to address any potential issues with your home’s foundation, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and stress down the line.
Here’s why it is so important to take home foundation issues seriously and 8 of the best tips that you can follow to do just that.
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Check for Warning Signs
It is important to be aware of any potential warning signs that your home’s foundation may have problems.
Look for cracks in the walls or floors, windows, and doors that don’t seem to fit properly, sticking doors or windows, sagging ceilings, or bowing walls.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it could indicate there are underlying issues with your foundation.
So before repairing the foundation of a building, it’s important to hire a professional who will assess exactly what’s wrong with it and the different approaches needed to fix it.
Additionally, be sure to check in on your foundation at least once a year as part of your home maintenance.
Examine the Foundation
For more serious issues, it is important to examine the foundation itself.
Take a look around and see if there are any cracks or other signs of damage that could indicate deeper problems.
If you can get underneath your house, you may want to check for unevenness in the concrete or if the support beams seem sound.
Additionally, keeping shrubs and trees away from the foundation can help keep water away and reduce moisture buildup which could cause further damage down the line.
A rule of thumb is to keep shrubs and trees at least 5 feet away from your foundation.
Call in a Professional
If you notice any signs of damage or are concerned that there may be an issue with the foundation, it is important to call in a professional for an inspection as soon as possible.
A licensed professional will be able to tell if the issue can be fixed without major repairs or if there are structural issues that need to be addressed.
They will also provide recommendations on how best to repair any existing problems as well as additional preventative measures you can take to ensure no further issues arise down the line.
Addressing Water Issues
One of the leading causes of foundation failure is water infiltration, so it’s important to address any water issues immediately.
Check for leaks in your home’s pipes and the HVAC system, gutters, and even the ground around your foundation.
If you notice standing water near or on your foundation, take steps to get it away from the house as soon as possible.
Additionally, make sure that all of your gutters and downspouts are working properly so that rainwater is being directed away from the house rather than pooling up near the foundation.
Investigate Exterior Changes
Changes in the exterior of your home such as landscaping or construction can cause shifts in the soil and pressure on your foundation which could lead to cracks and other problems.
Before making any changes to the exterior of your home, it’s important to check with a professional to make sure that any changes you do make won’t compromise the stability of your foundation.
Some changes, such as adding a fence or changing the flow of irrigation can have an impact on your foundation and should be addressed before any work begins.
Additionally, it’s important to check for any external sources of water that could seep into your basement or crawl space and cause damage.
Taking these steps will help you prevent any problems down the line.
Get Regular Inspections
It is important to get regular inspections of your home’s foundation to ensure that there are no underlying issues or potential problems down the line.
Scheduling maintenance at least once every two years with the professionals you’ve already hired and know are good can help you identify any potential problems and address them before they become a nuisance.
If you own a business and have a business property, consider getting an inspection once a year.
An inspector will provide an in-depth look at the foundation and can recommend any necessary structural repairs that might be needed. Investing in regular inspections is a worthwhile endeavor to protect your home and ensure its safety for many years to come.
Check for Tree Roots
If you have any trees near your home, check the area around and underneath them for signs of root growth which could cause upheaval and instability in your foundation.
If there are any large roots close to your home’s foundation, it is important to get them removed as soon as possible.
Additionally, make sure that you keep an eye on the trees surrounding your house and trim them back every couple of years so they don’t cause damage down the line.
Repair Cracks Immediately
If you notice any cracks in your foundation or walls, it is important to address them immediately rather than wait for more serious issues to arise down the line.
Smaller cracks can be filled easily with a patching compound while larger ones may require professional repair services.
Depending on the severity of the issue, it’s best to consult with a professional before deciding on a course of action.
Some smaller cracks may even be able to be left alone, but it is best to investigate the problem before making a decision.
Either way, you should monitor the area where the crack is regularly to ensure that it has not worsened or become an even bigger issue.
No matter the seriousness of your foundation issues, it is important to address any potential problems right away so that you can ensure long-term stability for your home.
With regular maintenance and checkups, you can keep your foundation in good shape for years to come.
If ever in doubt or if you notice any signs of distress, don’t hesitate to call in a professional for an inspection as soon as possible.
Taking these steps now will help you avoid costly repairs and other serious issues down the line.
