Movement of your home’s foundation is inevitable, whether due to shifting or unstable soils or other natural. However, there are some steps you can take to extend the life of your foundation and save money on repairs.
- Proper drainage is crucial – don’t let water accumulate around the house, especially around piers (standing water will cause piers to sink). Also be aware of pools of water caused by plumbing or AC leaks.
- The ground around the house should slope downward and away from the house to aid runoff.
- Do not over-water lawns and shrubs.
- Adjust the amount of water used on lawns and shrubs depending on the weather – more in dry weather, less in wet weather.
- Don’t let water pool within 15 feet of the house.
- Don’t plant trees too close to the house because they suck moisture out of the ground, causing the soil to dry out. This can cause foundation problems, and so can roots.
- Keep rain gutters clean and well maintained.
- Water, but don’t over-water the ground around the perimeter of your house (also beware of cracks in the soil around the house during dry weather).
- Get your house regularly inspected for termites and other destructive insects; they can eat away at the underside (joists, beams, and flooring) of a pier and beam house.
- Keep vines and shrubs from growing too closely to the perimeter of the house.
- If the grade around the house can’t be changed to allow for proper drainage, install moisture barriers (at least 5 feet deep) or French drains.
If You are Having Foundation Problems in Your Home
Call Us Today and Arrange for a Detailed, Free Evaluation of Your Foundation.
