One of the most important fundamental aspects of your home is the foundation. A solid foundation provides the base of your home, and keeps your home sound and sturdy. If the foundation is compromised, the entire house is at risk. Moisture is the number one culprit that weakens and compromises your home’s foundation. It can collect from burst pipes, rain, snow, 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 and restoration costs to the foundation of your Santa Rosa home, and keep excess moisture away.
Water Damage Restoration In Santa Rosa
- Grade the ground around your house away from the foundation. The ground within 10 feet around your foundation should slope at least 6 inches. 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.
- Keep gutters clear of buildup. Leaves and debris can block your gutters, keeping the water from running freely through them. When clogged, gutters will cause water to buildup 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 and restoration costs to the foundation and basement of your home.
The best way to prevent water damage restoration from affecting 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. If you do find yourself in need of water damage restoration, call the experts at BRC.