Homeowners will likely do whatever they can to avoid having foundation issues or needing foundation repairs. Did you know there are several preventative measures you can take to avoid foundation problems with your home?
Before we concentrate on the tips that help in avoiding foundation issues, however, it is essential to consider some of the conditions or factors which cause problems to the foundation. In most circumstances, foundation issues are caused by an uneven accumulation of different amounts of water in some areas of the foundation. Changes in soil moisture levels, because the foundation is forced to shrink and expand, which consequently leads to the upward or downward movement of the house.
The secret to avoiding foundations problems is ensuring that the moisture content below and around the house is consistent and even. Some of the tips to achieve this include the following.
Proper lawn care
A healthy lawn is very essential, especially in preventing water from evaporating, so that the moisture content is maintained at an invariant level. In winter, lawns also help in maintaining good moisture levels, but they should be irrigated on a regular basis during the dry period so that excess water is not absorbed from the soil, as this will cause dryness and result to foundation-related issues. Likewise, the areas about the house should be watered evenly, so that the amount of moisture beneath remains level, to avoid migration.
Monitor the drainage system
Downspouts and gutters have a crucial role in in maintaining the solid state of a foundation. When gutters and downspouts are of the right size and properly installed, most of the water is directed away from the foundation, thereby reducing the chances of heaving which mainly results from excess moisture. Foundations built on sandy soils should have downspouts which direct water 5 feet away from the foundation, while those that are built on expansive soils require downspouts that drive water 10 feet further from the foundation.
Avoid root riots
This refers to a situation whereby the roots of trees and shrubs compete for moisture with the soil, particularly during the dry period. This causes the foundation to sink unevenly, which will also cause a drywall to crack. You should therefore avoid this competition for water by planting deep rooted shrubs and trees far away from the house.
Install soil erosion control systems
Areas which experience an extreme grade should be supported with a proper erosion control system. This ensures that the slopes are stable, which secures the foundation too. It may range between ground covers such as grass, or even concrete pavers, liners, landscape timbers and rocks.
Install moisture barriers
This is an important consideration, particularly when you cannot control the grid along your foundation. A moisture barrier serves as a program which works to prevent the movement of moisture under the foundation. A well constructed moisture barrier should run nearly 5 feet deep. Conclusively, it takes simple but demanding tasks to ensure the safety of your foundation and home. This option may not be the most ideal, but will certainly pay off if you believe is your home is at risk.
For more information about keeping your lawn evenly irrigated in order to avoid foundation issues, contact Prestige One Landscaping today at 816-226-6337.
Very informative, thanks for the tips! Anything you can do to help prevent foundation damage is good.
Being that foundations are not cheep to fix, these are all good tips to follow for sure.
These are great tips, often things you don’t think about but they can really help prevent foundation issues.
foundations are key to keeping your home together, any tip I can get to preventing issues Im going to take, Thanks
My father always told me that during the dry periods to make sure to water the foundation, seems silly but will save you money in the long run.
Thanks for the great tips.
Setting up a good system may take some time, money, and work, but your yard may be the envy of all your neighbors!
Foundation issues are something no one wants to have, thanks for the tips to help prevent them!
There are so many different techniques when caring for you lawn. You can get soil test done, to ensure the proper method for eliminating weeds, and providing the right nutrients.
These are some good tips because taking care of your lawn is important.
Poor foundations can lead to devastating outcomes. If you’re able to, taking care of your lawn can go a long long ways.
Great tips from some pros in the field, thanks.
Your foundation on your home is very important. If you spend enough time, and effort, your lawn can improve the strength.
Foundation work is some of the most expensive to do. Good tips to think about.
Foundations need to be examined quite a bit. Sinkholes are being found time and time again. Taking care of your lawn, goes a long way.
Great tips for developing a strong lawn, which will in turn help your foundation, and keep your house from moving.
Foundations can definitely shift your house, so it’s better to take care of your lawn while you can.
Great tips. I’m sure most people don’t think about the importance of nurturing their yard and the effects to your foundation from it.
Wow, I didn’t know about most of this. Very good.
Very good information. Didn’t know about this stuff.
Foundations should never be taken lightly. There is plenty to do around the lawn.
Good call on monitoring the drainage system!
Foundation work often gets overlooked, but can become a huge problem. Better to take care of it early and often.
Most people don’t realize how much caring for their lawn can effect the foundation of their home. They think its for appearances, but its also important structurally.