Protecting Your Home’s Foundation

Your home’s foundation might not be something you think about all the time, or even much at all, but it is, in many ways, the most important part of your property because, after all, it is the thing your whole home is built upon, and when it is damaged, everything else can fall. So, it's safe to say that protecting your home’s foundation is one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner, but how exactly do you go about it?

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Keep Water Away

One of the biggest threats to a foundation is water. Poor drainage can cause water to pool around the base of your home, leading to soil erosion or excessive pressure against foundation walls. Over time, this can result in cracks or shifting. In order to prevent this, you are going to want to make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and functioning properly. Downspouts should direct water several feet away from the foundation, and the ground around your home should slope away to encourage proper runoff.

Sort Out Your Soil

Consistent moisture levels in the soil are also important. In areas that experience dry seasons, soil can shrink and pull away from the foundation, causing movement and cracking. During extended dry periods, light watering around the perimeter of your home can help maintain stable soil conditions. On the other hand, you should definitely avoid overwatering landscaping near the foundation, as too much moisture can be just as damaging as too little.

Take Cracks Seriously

Cracks in walls, floors, or the foundation itself should never be ignored. While small hairline cracks can be normal, larger or growing cracks may indicate structural problems. Regular inspections, both inside and outside your home, can help you catch issues early. Addressing minor repairs promptly is far less expensive than waiting until major damage occurs.

Deal with Pest Problems

Pests can also pose a serious risk to your home’s foundation, so you need to sort them out sooner rather than later. Termites, in particular, can weaken wooden structures that support the foundation and surrounding areas. Left untreated, an infestation can compromise your home’s stability. Scheduling regular pest inspections and seeking professional termite removal at the first sign of activity can help protect your foundation and prevent extensive damage.

Trees and Landscaping Choices Matter

Trees and landscaping choices can also affect foundation health, so they may need your regular attention to keep things safe.  Large trees planted too close to the home can draw moisture from the soil or cause root pressure against foundation walls. Choose plants with less aggressive root systems and maintain a safe distance between trees and your house. This helps reduce the risk of soil movement and structural stress.

Ventilate 

Proper ventilation in crawl spaces and basements is also really important for healthy foundations, so be sure to understand how excess humidity can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and weakening of structural components. Using vapor barriers, dehumidifiers, or improved ventilation systems can help control moisture levels and protect the foundation from long-term damage.

Here’s to homes built (and maintained) on solid foundations.

This is a contributed post.

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