Simple Ways to Protect Your Foundation Year-Round
Easy Steps Every Homeowner Can Take to Keep Their Foundation Strong and Safe
Your home’s foundation is one of its most important parts, but it’s also one that many homeowners don’t think about until there’s a problem. At Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair, we’ve helped thousands of families fix foundation issues, and we’ve learned that many problems can be prevented with simple, regular care. You don’t need to be an expert or spend a lot of money to protect your foundation. With just a few easy steps throughout the year, you may be able to keep your foundation strong and avoid costly repairs down the road. Our team has seen what works and what doesn’t, and we want to share these simple tips with you. Taking care of your foundation is like taking care of your car—a little regular maintenance goes a long way. The good news is that most foundation protection doesn’t require special tools or skills. These are things any homeowner can do to keep their foundation in great shape year after year.
Keep Water Away From Your Foundation
When water sits around your foundation or soaks into the soil near your home, it can cause serious problems over time.
Watch Your Gutters:
- Clean your gutters at least twice a year
- Make sure downspouts point away from your house
- Extend downspouts at least 6 feet from your foundation
- Fix any leaks or loose connections right away
Grade Your Yard Properly: The ground around your home should slope away from your foundation. If you notice water pooling near your house after it rains, you may need to add some soil to create the right slope. This doesn’t have to be perfect, but water should flow away from your home, not toward it.
Fix Drainage Problems: If you have areas where water always stands after rain, these need attention. Sometimes adding drainage or simply filling in low spots with soil can solve the problem. The key is not letting water sit near your foundation for long periods.
Maintain Consistent Soil Moisture
This might sound complicated, but it’s actually pretty simple. You want the soil around your foundation to stay at about the same moisture level all year long.
During Dry Periods:
- Water the soil around your foundation lightly but regularly
- Use a soaker hose or a drip line for even watering
- Don’t let the soil get bone dry and pull away from your house
- Water in the morning or evening when it’s cooler
During Wet Periods:
- Make sure water drains away quickly
- Don’t let puddles form and sit
- Check that your gutters are working properly
- Remove any standing water you see
The goal is to avoid big changes in soil moisture. When soil gets very dry, it shrinks. When it gets very wet, it expands. These changes can put pressure on your foundation and cause cracks or shifting.
Seasonal Foundation Care Tips
Each season brings different challenges for your foundation. Here’s what to focus on throughout the year:
Spring:
- Check for any new cracks that developed over winter
- Clean and inspect your gutters
- Look for areas where water might pool during spring rains
- Start a regular watering schedule if you live in a dry climate
Summer:
- Keep soil around your foundation moist during hot, dry periods
- Check that sprinklers aren’t spraying directly on your foundation
- Look for signs of soil pulling away from your house
- Trim any plants that are growing too close to your foundation. Consider removing large shrubs or trees near your foundation
Fall:
- Clean gutters and remove leaves
- Check that downspouts are still directing water away
- Prepare drainage areas for winter weather
- Do a final inspection for any issues before cold weather
Winter:
- Keep an eye on ice dams and roof leaks
- Make sure snow isn’t piling up against your foundation
- Check for frozen pipes that might burst
- Look for any settling or new cracks
Simple Warning Signs to Watch For
You don’t need to be an expert to spot potential foundation problems. Here are some easy things to look for:
Inside Your House:
- Cracks in walls, especially near doors and windows
- Doors that stick or don’t close properly
- A change in the slope on the floor
Outside Your Home:
- Cracks in your foundation walls
- Soil that has pulled away from your foundation
- Water stains on foundation walls
- Bulging or bowing walls
- Brick/Mortar Cracks
If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic. Many foundation issues can be minor if caught early. The important thing is to have them checked by a professional before they get worse.
When to Call the Professionals
While these simple maintenance steps can prevent many problems, sometimes you need expert help. Call Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair if you notice any warning signs, if you’re not sure about drainage around your home, or if you want a professional inspection for peace of mind.
We Can Help With:
- Foundation inspections and assessments
- Drainage solutions and waterproofing
- Crack repair and foundation stabilization
- Custom solutions for your specific situation
Remember, taking care of your foundation doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With these simple steps, you can protect one of your home’s most important systems and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Ready to give your foundation the protection it deserves? Contact Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair today for expert advice and professional foundation care that keeps your home safe and secure!