Over 30% of all Canadian homeowners had to conduct home repairs at least once in the past year. One of the most common repairs needed in Canadian homes is foundation damage.
So what are the most common foundation damage signs? More importantly, how do you prevent house foundation issues from occurring in the first place? Read on to learn more about how you can avoid home foundation damage!
What Are the Most Common Signs of Foundation Damage?
The most common signs of foundation damage are cracks around your home's exterior. Ones that are large and are zig-zagging are the most worrisome.
When doors are out of the square or just look misaligned, that's usually a sign that the walls or floor on either side of it are experiencing damage. Uneven floors are also a similar sign.
Rotten wood on your piers and beams are common foundation damage indicators as well. This tends to happen in basements or other damp areas of your home.
Now that we know some of the most common signs of foundation damage, let's look at a few ways you can prevent them from happening:
Improved Grading
If your home was built on a slope, water can often find its way to the base of your house and leak in through the cracks in your foundation. Fixing the grade slopes can prevent foundational damage in this case.
A berm of soil can keep the water from reaching the base of your home. This can be time-consuming, but periodically maintaining the berm will ensure no water seeps through the foundation to cause further damage.
Waterproofed Foundations
Waterproofing your foundation will keep everything dry and prevent any moisture from going in or exacerbating any foundation damage. Look to waterproof the exterior or the interior of your basement walls.
Gutters and Downspouts
Water often flows off roofs and causes damage to most home foundations. Installing gutters and downspouts should carry that water away instead of having it sit in the foundation.
Keeping Bushes and Trees Away
Did you know trees and other plants can penetrate your home's foundation? This is a surefire way to destabilize your home. Are there already large trees near your home already? Check your plumbing to see if everything's clear.
If not, consider calling an arborist or another professional to get rid of roots. Otherwise, you'll be dealing with foundation issues for years.
Check for Leaks and Stains
The next time you're in your basement, check for any signs of leaks or stains. For example, a small rusty spot could be indicative of moisture. Mould is another big indicator, both of which could ruin your home's foundation.
Sniffing Out Foundation Damage Before They Occur
Dealing with foundation damage can cost you quite a bit of money, but knowing the signs is a great way to make sure that doesn't happen. Use this guide to help you prevent a damaged foundation!
Are you looking for professional foundation repair services in Ottawa? Contact us today, and we'll get you started on a solution right away!