Get your rainboots out -- there's another "atmospheric river" hitting us this week. Maybe you call it a Bomb Cyclone. Or a Derecho, a Monsoon or a Pineapple Express. No matter its name, heavy rain is a threat to your house. And while you may think of the roof, potential leaks, or even trees falling, the quiet danger is happening underfoot. The foundation of your home is its most critical structural component, and rain is not its friend. So whether you're hurrying to prepare for a storm today, or you're planning ahead for a future with a more extreme climate, let's review expert insights, with some practical advice and strategies to help you protect your biggest investment.
Managing Water Drainage
Effective water drainage is crucial for preserving your home's foundation. You want to avoid water accumulation around the foundation, increasing the risk of soil erosion and foundation movement. Luckily, your best protection is through steps you can take yourself: Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are working and directing water away from the foundation; go check them right now! Second most important step: keep your storm drains clear, they're probably covered with debris from the last storm. Third: clear out the street gutters near your property, especially if you live on one of our East Bay hills. Make absolutely sure that street run-off is not spilling over into your yard -- make a dam with sandbags if necessary, and call your city if you think the street's curb is causing problems.
Monitoring for Cracks and Pooling
Over time, inspecting your home's foundation for cracks and shifts is an important part of home maintenance. Small cracks can be a normal part of the settling process, but larger cracks or noticeable shifts may indicate underlying issues that need attention. Monitoring for wet soil or water pooling under the house is also important, notifying you that there is a flaw in your drainage plan. Monitoring these signs can help you catch potential problems early and seek professional remedies if necessary.
Utilizing Professional Inspections
Some houses make it easy to see what's happening under the structure: you may be able to open the hatch to the crawl space, poke your head in and scan around with a flashlight. But for some houses, crawling through the aptly named crawl space is needed, and that may not be your thing. A qualified home inspector can do this. While many people wait until they are selling their home to engage an inspector, having an inspector evaluate your crawl space and foundation periodically can help identify potential issues before they become significant problems. Keep in mind that many healthy structures do in fact have foundation cracks that don't require repair. Always feel free to consult a real estate agent before spending money on big repairs.
Addressing Foundation Repairs Promptly
When foundation issues are identified, addressing them promptly is crucial to preventing further damage. Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive and costly problems down the line. If you notice signs of foundation distress, such as uneven floors, sticking doors, or visible cracks, seek the expertise of a foundation repair specialist. These professionals can assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions, such as underpinning or piering, to restore stability to your foundation. Do spend the time and money to get a couple opinions, ideally finding an expert who is not in the business of doing the repair work, to avoid potential conflicts of interest. A real estate agent can advise you on this.
Understanding Soil Composition and Its Impact
The type of soil beneath your home plays a significant role in the stability of your foundation. Different soil types have varying properties that can affect how the foundation settles over time. Many parts of the East Bay, and Lamorinda in particular, have clay soils: these will soak up water and expand in the winter, then dry out and contract in the summer; that's why so many structures here do have hairline foundation cracks after a few years, and it's not considered a problem. A soils engineer or a geotechnical engineer can tell you the specific soil conditions around your home and guide you in implementing appropriate measures to maintain foundation stability over the long term.
Ensuring Proper Landscaping Practices
Landscaping choices can have a significant impact on your home's foundation. Trees and large shrubs planted too close to the foundation can cause root intrusion, which may lead to cracks and shifts. When planning your landscaping, consider the mature size of plants and ensure they are positioned at a safe distance from the foundation. Using ground cover plants and mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce erosion, contributing to a stable foundation environment.
Secure Your Home’s Future
Ensuring the stability of your home's foundation is crucial for long-term safety and value. By taking proactive steps now, you can prevent costly repairs and maintain your property's worth. A real estate agent can point you in the right direction. For personalized guidance, reach out to me at Gillian Judge Hogan today. It's my job to help you safeguard your home for years to come.
