Foundation problems are serious and often lead to very costly repairs. Getting the foundation inspected periodically is one way to catch small problems before they get too bad, but there are also some basic foundation tips that every home owner should be an aware of. The following tips from Foundation Contractors in Hawaii provide some specific steps home owners can take to protect the foundation of their house.
Maintain The Gutters
Having a well-functioning gutter system is essential to preventing excessive moisture around the foundation. Gutters along the roofline control the flow of rainwater and direct it away from the house with downspouts. Home owners should have their gutters cleaned at least twice a year, since a buildup of debris can cause rainwater to sluice over the side and go directly into the foundation. In addition, it’s important to make sure that the gutter system is structurally sound and not pulling away from the roof.
Make Sure There Is Proper Surface Drainage
Water falling from the roof isn’t the only source of potentially damaging moisture, of course. It’s also important to make sure that surface water drains away from the house. Home owners should check and make sure that the ground slopes away from the foundation on all sides of the house. Ideally, the ground should slope six inches downward over a distance of about ten feet. Another drainage issue to consider is the positioning of downspouts from the gutter system. In some cases, it may be helpful to add an extension that will carry the water farther away from the house.
Keep The Level Of Moisture Consistent
While excessive moisture can be damaging, so can a lack of moisture, which can lead to the soil shrinking away from the foundation. To keep the moisture level consistent, home owners can use a sprinkler system in the summer that will add water to the soil around the foundation. Be aware that French drains can sometimes have the effect of drying out the soil, so they should only be installed by professionals after a thorough inspection and assessment.
By carefully controlling moisture around the foundation, home owners can keep their foundation in good condition for many years. To get more advice from Foundation Contractors in Hawaii, click here. You can also visit them on Facebook.
