Water is a destructive element to a home’s foundation. When water pools around the foundation, it can erode the material and lead to expensive repairs. Fortunately, there are strategies to keep water away from your foundation and protect your home from costly damage. Check out these six tips to get you started.
Clean the Gutters to Keep Water Away From Your Foundation
One of the easiest ways to protect your home is by regularly cleaning the gutters. Debris, such as leaves, pine needles, and twigs, can clog gutters and create blockages, causing the channels to overflow and directing water toward your home. Make it a practice to remove debris twice a year or install gutter guards to keep falling leaves out of the gutters.
Redirect Water Away from Your Home
Direct water away from your home by properly grading the soil around it. You want the ground sloping away from your foundation, allowing water to flow away from your house rather than pooling near the foundation. Add more soil near the home to create a slight slope if needed.
Install Downspout Extensions
Downspouts are an important element in directing water away from a building. The water that collects on your roof can be funneled from the house and into drainage areas such as flower beds, a dry well, or away from the property entirely. Install downspout extensions to direct water to the proper place.
Add French Drains to Protect Your Foundation
If your land does not have adequate grading and drainage, add French drains to improve water flow around your home. A French drain is a ditch filled with gravel with a perforated pipe running through it. It collects water from surrounding areas and directs it away from the house into storm drains or a more suitable location.
Have the Foundation Inspected
It is helpful to have your home’s foundation inspected by a professional. An experienced inspector looks for signs of water damage and identifies areas needing additional drainage solutions. They can also verify that your waterproofing measures are sufficient and functioning properly.
Add Plants to Keep Water Away From Your Foundation
This may sound counterintuitive, but adding plants around your foundation can help manage moisture. Plants act as a natural filter and absorb water while providing color around your home. Select plants native to your area that will thrive in the soil and light conditions on your property.
Water can destroy your home’s foundation, but following these tips helps protect your house from costly damage. Regular maintenance and proper solutions to divert water away from your foundation can go a long way in keeping water damage at bay.
KeysInspector offers inspection services for homes and businesses in the southern Florida area. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.