Avoiding Water Damage Restoration To Your Foundation

Moisture is the number one culprit that weakens and compromises your home’s foundation. Water is all around your foundation, and can collect from burst pipes, rain and over-saturated soil. As moisture builds up around the foundation, it causes increased pressure on the walls, which can increase the risk of cracks, which allow water and moisture to leak into the home. Here are some ways you can prevent water damage to the foundation of your home, keep restoration costs low, and keep excess moisture away

Water Damage Restoration In Valley Glen

1. Grade the ground around your house graded away from the foundation. The ground within 10 feet around your foundation should slope at least 6 inches away. If your ground needs increased grading, you can add dense soil to achieve the proper grading. Without correct grading, water will run towards the foundation, and collect and pool there.

1. Keep gutters clear of buildup. Leaves and debris can block your gutter, keeping the water from running freely through them. If blocked, gutters will cause water to build up and overflow down the sides of your home, collecting at the foundation. To keep buildup from collecting inside your gutters, you should clean them out at least twice a year (once in the spring and again in the fall). 

1. Make sure downspouts are directing water away from your home. Downspouts are designed to route water a safe distance away from the foundation of your home to prevent it from pooling nearby. If your downspouts are not channeling water at least 10 feet from your home, add extensions to ensure that they are effectively leading water away from your foundation. 

1. Regularly inspect the walls of your home and foundation for cracks. As the foundation settles, it will likely crack in places. Cracks larger than 1/8 inch should not be ignored. You can seal small cracks with caulk, and replace larger gaps with hydraulic cement. Any deteriorating mortar joints should also be corrected to avoid letting water into your home.

1. Inspect your roof at least once a year to be sure it is in good condition. Broken, loose, or missing tiles could cause water to trickle down the sides of your home, instead of into the gutters. Keeping your roof maintained will greatly decrease the risk of water flooding your foundation. 

1. Invest in a quality sump pump. Sump pumps are installed in the basement floor, and help prevent excess water from building up. The sump pump basin gathers in water from rain and groundwater seepage. Once the water reaches a certain level, the sump pump will turn on and drain the water away into sewage lines, storm drains, or dry wells. A properly functioning sump pump ensures extra protection against water damage to the foundation and basement of your home. 

The best way to prevent water damage and restoration costs from your home’s foundation is to ensure proper drainage near and around your home. Following these steps will help keep water from collecting around your foundation, and keep it safe and strong. That being said, water damage is not 100% preventable – but don’t worry, Fast Power Water Damage Restoration & Mold Clean Up is here to help. We specialize in water damage restoration whether around your foundation or in any other area in your home and from any source. 

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