Your home is one of the biggest investments you will ever make. You will make a myriad of memories there, and it may be part of your legacy that you will pass on to your loved ones or friends. Because your home is an important investment, you need to do whatever possible to protect it. One of the most crucial ways to protect your home is to make sure its foundation remains in decent shape. Failure to maintain your home’s foundation can lead to serious problems such as deep cracks or your home becoming completely ruined. To prevent foundation damage, you must follow the below eight important steps.

●     Closely Inspect Your Home’s Perimeter

Periodically, you must check that your foundation is not cracking. If you spot any cracks, you want to get those repaired as soon as possible so water does not seep down into your foundation and ruin your home. In addition to looking for cracks in your foundation, you need to make sure there are approximately six inches between your home’s exterior covering and the top of the foundation to prevent moisture buildup. If you find that there is much dirt and debris, clear away as much as you can so there is space between the exterior covering of your home and the top of the foundation.

●     Make Sure the Ground Slopes Away from Your Home and Install Flood Buriers

If the ground slopes towards your home, water will run into your foundation when there are storms. After exposure to water over time, your foundation will erode which will eventually lead to cracks and other wear and tear. If you find that the ground slopes towards your home, you must do whatever you can to make sure it slopes away. Landscapers can assist you with this effort. In addition to making changes to your landscape, look into having flood barriers for homes installed for added protection.

●     Check to See if Water Pools Near Your Home’s Foundation

To see if water pools near your foundation, spray along your house with a hose. If you find that water is pooling, fill in these areas with dirt, and make sure to pack the dirt tightly. Filling in these areas with tightly packed dirt will make certain water does not pool near your foundation.

●     Always Remain Aware of Changes Near Your Property

If your neighbor makes landscape changes or if crews work on cables in the streets, your home’s drain system can be impacted. If your drain system is impacted, your foundation can eventually be affected. When you notice these changes taking place, inspect your drainage system to ensure it still works properly.

●     Clean and Inspect Your Home’s Gutters

Twice a year, you need to clean your gutters. Clear the debris and make sure to dispose of it by throwing it into the garbage. Some people merely clean their gutters and throw the debris on the ground near their homes which is a mistake because this debris can cause water to pool near the foundation. Also, make sure there are no cracks in your gutters. If you find any cracks in your gutters, get them repaired immediately because these can lead to water buildup in the wrong places which eventually causes issues with your foundation .

●     Check Your Downspouts

Just as you want to make sure your gutters are in working order, the same must also be true for your downspouts. Make sure your downspouts do not have any cracks. If you spot any cracks, get them repaired immediately so the water will not pool near your home. In addition to making sure your downspouts are free of any cracks, you must make sure they route the water away from your home.

●     Clear Away Plants and Vines Close to Your Home

If you want to plant foliage, take care not to do this too close to your home. If you also spot vines growing up in your house, get rid of them. Having foliage and vines too close to your home will soak up the moisture that is needed to keep your foundation from cracking which can happen if your foundation becomes too dry. While you do not want water pooling near your foundation, your foundation does need a bit of moisture to avoid shrinking too much which will also cause cracks.

Following these steps will guarantee that your Home’s foundation remains in top shape for years to come. You will be protecting your investment as well as saving money as you will not have to contend with costly repairs.