When the last heat wave is just a sweet memory and your wool cardigans have replaced your Bermuda shorts, you know now is the time to think about getting your home ready for winter. In this sense, taking care of the protection and maintenance of your foundations during the fall could avoid very unpleasant surprises next spring. There are a few simple but responsible actions that can help keep your foundation healthy and secure the investment that your property represents.
Foundation maintenance starts at the top
You may be wondering how a tall element manages to influence the foundation. The fact is that the worst enemy of your home’s foundation is water accumulation. That’s why you should start your fall check-up tour with a gutter inspection. If they are clogged with debris, they will not be able to effectively drain rainwater or melt snow. The gutter system is designed to direct all that liquid away from your foundation. In the event that they do not perform this function due to a pile of leaves or pine needles, the water will slowly trickle down the walls, to the floor, to soak it and even form puddles.
Protect your foundation by ensuring that the drainage system is working properly
Too much water build-up around your foundation could lead to significant problems, such as your home heaving or water seeping through cracks. If your floor contains wooden beams, this level of humidity could cause them to rot. That’s why it’s imperative that your exterior drain is able to drain away water that could damage your foundation. In addition, if water accumulates and solidifies during the winter, it will bulk up and could cause damage. A measure as simple as making sure a slope gently directs water away from your walls can also be relevant.
Maintaining Your Plumbing: A Good Way to Preserve Your Foundation
One of the biggest causes of damage to your home’s foundation is water leaks in the plumbing system. If a portion of this system, located under the foundation, leaks, there could be a significant accumulation of water. Damaged pipes can be part of your sprinkler system, drinking water supply, or sewage disposal system. Regardless, if this liquid freezes during the winter, it could lead to cracking of the concrete slab or lifting of the foundation.
A visual inspection of your foundation every fall: a measure to adopt
It can pay to walk around your foundation with a trained eye during the fall season. This way, you can spot any potential anomalies that could damage your flooring during periods of extreme cold. Damage, cracks, traces of mold or moisture or even harmful insects are signs that should not be overlooked. If you notice something that worries you, it’s best to contact a subject matter expert who can fix the problem before it causes even more severe damage to your foundation.
For their essential role in the strength and durability of your home, the foundations of your home deserve your full attention. The imminent arrival of winter and the risks that this season entails therefore justify taking the time to ensure their maintenance and protection. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask a specialist for advice. You can never be too careful!
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Gatineau, Laval, Chicoutimi and many other cities.