If our homes are our kingdoms then their foundations are our underlying bedrocks that keep us grounded. Maybe the worst thing that can happen to your foundation besides landslides is water reaching your foundation. Water will find its way through anything and can cause cracks, mold growth, and structural weakness that can seriously compromise the safety and integrity of your home.
However, all is not lost. You can contact dependable specialists who employ cutting-edge tools to conduct slab leak detection in Riverside, CA, and ensure that your foundation is not endangered by water flows. Don’t risk your health, safety, and the future of your property, be vigilant and react promptly!
How do you keep water out of your foundation?
In today’s post, we take a look at useful tips to help you prevent water leaks from compromising the integrity of your foundation. These tricks can make a real difference in case of an emergency so be sure to go through our list. If you can’t incorporate them all, don’t feel bad and focus on the ones you can do.
1. Maintain proper grading around your home
1. Maintain proper grading around your homeThe ground around the home should always gently slope away from the foundation. This natural incline ensures that water flows away from the house instead of pooling around the foundation. Ideally, the slope should be at least 6 inches over a 10-foot span away from your foundation walls.
2. Install & maintain gutters & downspouts
Properly functioning gutters and downspouts are crucial for directing rainwater away from your home. To prevent congestion and overflows, ensure your gutters are properly aligned and free of muck and debris that may cause clogging. Downspouts should extend at least 5 feet away from your home to prevent water from collecting near the foundation.
3. Use downspout extensions or splash blocks
To ensure that your downspouts are directing the water away from your foundation, look to install downspout extensions or splash blocks. These simple accessories will play a major role in keeping water from seeping back towards the house.
4. Regularly inspect & repair foundation cracks
Regular inspection of your foundation is key to discovering potential cracks in their infancy before they grow into serious problems. Even a small crack in your foundation can serve as a major pathway for water entry so it’s important to act decisively and not waste time.
5. Install a sump pump
If you live in an area prone to frequent or heavy rainfall or flooding, you should seriously consider acquiring a sump pump. Sump pumps collect excess water from the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace and pump it away from your home, preventing the accumulation of water around your foundation.
6. Consider foundation waterproofing
Foundation waterproofing is a reliable way to erect a waterproof barrier and protect against water damage. Even if it costs a bit more, it’s a great way to provide your property and precious belongings with quality, long-term protection.
7. Ensure proper soil moisture levels
Excessive soil moisture can lead to expansion that will put pressure on your foundation. Conversely, overly dry soil will shrink and cause settling. This is why it’s so important to maintain balance using landscaping techniques like proper grading to prevent either of these two extremes.
8. Install a French drain system
A French drain is an underground drainage system that redirects surface and groundwater away from your foundation. It involves digging a trench around the perimeter of your home, laying down a perforated pipe, and covering it with gravel. French drain effectively channels water away from your foundation while stopping debris from obstructing the system.
9. Monitor and adjust your landscaping
Be mindful of where and how you plant because you shouldn’t over-water near your home’s foundation. You should look to plant trees and large shrubs at a safe distance from your home since their roots can grow toward the foundation and create pathways for water.
10. Regularly inspect the roof and chimney
Leaks from the roof or chimney can trickle down and cause serious problems with your foundation. Before the heating season starts, inspect these areas for damage and ensure that they are well-maintained to prevent water from seeping down to the foundation level.
How can I get in touch with the leading specialists in slab leak detection in Riverside, CA?
If you need expert assistance with sealing a concrete slab, a proven team to find the leak under your concrete, or have questions concerning insurance coverage and slab leaks, The Leak Detection Pros combine experience and know-how to take charge of the project from the ground up. We take great pride in its distinguished track record, motivation to constantly improve, and commitment to our client’s complete satisfaction.
Whether you’re located close to The Mission Inn or on the western side of town, we’ll swiftly arrive at your place, waste no time getting our hands dirty, and spare no effort to resolve your issues. Never compromise your foundations, reach out to us today!