The best thing you can do to prevent foundation problems is to ensure your building’s foundation is free from excess moisture. Things like stormwater, tree roots, soil conditions are all elements that need to be managed.
In this article, we will discuss what you can do to prevent foundation problems, the causes, and other precautions that can prevent foundation problems in your home.
What Destroys A Foundation?
The main reason a foundation becomes damaged or unstable is due to moisture. Check your water management system to see if you’re doing everything you can to keep water away from your foundation. Secondly, tree roots can heave and damage foundations. Make sure to plant trees at a good distance from your home, and keep an eye on the ones that are already there. And finally, soil conditions can also lead to damage. So, if you are underpinning South Australia, be aware of the type of soil around your home.
6 Tips To Avoid Foundation Problems
These are the six things you should avoid to keep your foundations intact. These are:
1. Check Storm Water System
If you have a faulty storm water system, it can allow water to pool around your foundation and seep in, swell and heave. Make sure your storm water drains properly so it can carry water away from your foundation.
2. Replace Damaged Gutters And Downpipes
If gutters and downpipes are in poor condition that can also allow water to pool around your foundation. The amount of water in soil around your home’s foundation affects the pressure on the foundation, which can cause it to collapse or shift. Check them regularly and repair or replace them as needed.
3. Beware Of Tree Roots
Tree roots can go considerably deep into the ground and out of sight. As a result, tree roots can suck moisture away from foundations and cause damage. So, it is important to check for problems and take action if necessary.
4. Don’t Plant Trees Near Building
Be sure to plant anything sturdier like bushes or shrubs in your flower beds. They should be planted at least two feet away from the edge of your home’s foundation. This will ensure that both roots and drainage go where they belong — away from the house.
5. Monitor Cracks In Home
Always check your foundation and keep an eye on your walls and flooring. If you notice any cracks, get expert help as soon as possible. This is the best opportunity to correct the damage and prevent further foundation movement. The earlier you detect foundation problems, the easier they are to fix. You already have a significant issue if you see large fractures or wall bowing in your home.
6. Consult A Professional
Finally, get a professional inspection if you notice anything suspicious about your foundation or just want a clear picture of your real risk for this kind of worry. They can tell you whether your foundation is in good shape. Also, they can give you a few clues for the best prevention measures in your region.
Suppose you notice anything unusual about your foundation. In that case, we recommend getting a professional inspection or wanting a clear understanding of your real risk for this worry. They will not just tell you if your foundation is in excellent condition, but they’ll also be able to offer you some ideas on how to keep it that way in your area.
Underpinning is a complex process and you can’t do it yourself. Check our blog can you DIY underpinning to know more.
By keeping a vigilant eye on your home, yard, and foundation, you may avoid the headache of a damaged foundation.
