Did you enjoy playing blocks as a child? Maybe you liked stacking them up and then letting them tumble down. Or maybe you enjoyed creating the most elaborate structures you could dream of. People with this affinity for playing blocks often find that they like working as contractors and construction workers. After all, these jobs are sort of like playing blocks for grownups! You get to build things, albeit these things are much more complex than block towers. Sometimes, you also get to knock things down. If you like this analogy as much as we do, then we invite you to read more about construction and contractors on this website.
When a home's foundation faces woes, the entire structure can be at risk. However, intervening with the appropriate residential foundation repair tactics can help you make sure your home stays structurally sound. After working with a foundation repair contractor, it will remain important to maintain the foundation for the years to come. Take a look at a few tips to help you maintain your foundation after it has been professionally repaired.
Conduct Period Inspections
Inspect your foundation regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or bowing. Foundations that have already had issues may be more prone to problems in the future. Therefore, it will be important to continue to monitor the foundation for signs of trouble. It can also be a good idea to have the foundation repair contractor come to your home annually to do a quick evaluation of the foundation's condition.
Avoid Accumulated Debris Around the Foundation
Pay particular attention to the area that surrounds the exterior of your foundation. Keep the area around your foundation clear of debris and vegetation, as these can trap moisture and cause damage. Further, accumulated debris can make it difficult to point out issues like cracks or bowing because visibility will be reduced.
Keep an Eye on Water Runoff from the Roof and Elsewhere
Moisture can be a foundation's worst enemy. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to water-related issues that may have initially caused the foundation woes. Inspect your gutters and downspouts regularly and make sure they are working properly to direct water away from your foundation. Likewise, if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, consider installing a drainage system around your foundation to help prevent water from seeping in.
Test Your Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump in your basement or under your house, make sure it is working properly and that the battery backup is in good condition to prevent flooding during power outages. While foundation repair methods can do a good job of preventing future issues with water or foundation degradation, sump pumps are a necessary component to deter water-related disruptions.
Following these tips can help you maintain your foundation and prevent further damage, which can save you money in the long run. However, if you have any questions or concerns about your foundation, contact a local residential foundation repair contractor for help as soon as possible.