Concerned about a new crack developing in your home’s foundation? Some minor cracking is to be expected as the foundation settles over time, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on potential foundation issues before they become big problems. Foundation repairs can be very expensive, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Today we’ll address a few things you can do to prevent foundation damage in your home.
Grade the Ground Around Your Home
Ideally, the soil around to your foundation should slope away from your home to prevent water from pooling against the foundation after heavy rainstorms. Over time, however, erosion can cause stormwater runoff to drain back toward your foundation instead.
Survey the area around your home after the next rainstorm, and look for low spots where water is able to build up around the foundation. After the ground has had a chance to dry, backfill these spots with additional soil so that water can drain away from your home in the future.
Maintain Your Gutter System
A well-functioning gutter system is essential for carrying rainwater safely away from your home during storms. When clogged or damaged gutters begin to leak and overflow, all that excess water can begin to damage your foundation. Be sure to repair gutter leaks sooner rather than later, and inspect your downspouts to make sure they discharge water far away from your home.
Learn How to Read Foundation Cracks
Some foundation cracks warrant more concern than others. Whereas vertical cracks are typically the result of normal foundation settling, horizontal cracks can be a sign of more serious structural issues. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to repair even minor vertical cracks with epoxy injections once they become large enough to insert the edge of a dime. Horizontal cracks, meanwhile, should be examined by a professional to assess the cause and extent of the damage.
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