Home Guard Inspections

Did you know that water management is one of the most important factors in maintaining your home’s foundation? I see homes every week with a foundation that has cracked, moved or has deteriorated concrete all from poor water management. Here are some things you can do to keep your foundation healthy.

1. Gutters and downspouts. If your home doesn't have a gutter system, add one! Without gutters, all the water your roof catches will run right next to your foundation. Make sure your gutters are clean and properly graded so that water runs toward the downspouts. Add downspout extensions that move all that water at least 4 feet from your foundation.

2. Grading! Ensure the soil is sloped so water will run away from your foundation. Experts recommend a slope of 1 inch per foot for the first 10 feet. Avoid large planting beds next to your home that require routine watering. If you have a sidewalk next to your home’s foundation, seal that union with a polyurethane product.

3. Window well covers. Egress windows, which are required for below-grade basement bedrooms can act like large pools holding water that soaks the foundation. During the winter, snow falls into those window wells and the heat escaping from your home will continually melt that snow. Window well covers are an important part of foundation health.

If you need a foundation inspection, give me a call!

Missing insulation in your attic! I can do an infrared scan of your home to show you where the leaks are.