7 Proven Strategies to Strengthen Your Home’s Foundation

A foundation is a critical component of any building project. It keeps the structure upright while acting as the main source of strength. A strong foundation ensures the safety of the residents and maintains the home’s structural integrity. It reflects the care and investment of the homeowner in their property and increases its market value. 

Cracked walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors and windows are signs of foundation problems. When ignored, these minor issues develop into major problems. Proper inspections and remedial actions, such as water mitigation and mold remediation, protect your home from damage and keep your family safe. In this blog, Charleston foundation repair experts share seven strategies to protect and strengthen your foundation. Readers will learn how paying attention to drainage, soil moisture levels, sump pumps, and hiring a reliable foundation repair company can secure the foundation for decades. 

Improve Drainage Around Your Property

Rainwater or runoff accumulating around the foundation is the cause of most foundation troubles. It weakens the structure and causes mold, wood rot, and material decay. Poor drainage retains water near the house, putting hydrostatic pressure on the foundation walls. Over time, the walls start to crack and bulge, and moisture seeps into the foundation. This can cause moisture damage and even flooding. 

Maintain gutters and downspouts to properly drain water away from the home. Clear the gutters of debris regularly to prevent overflow during storms. Extend downspouts 10-15 feet away from the house to prevent water pooling near the foundation. Regrade the landscape and make sure the soil slopes downward to allow water to drain naturally.   

Poor water management causes serious structural problems. A proper gutter system protects the foundation from moisture issues and prevents soil erosion and movement problems. 

Maintain Consistent Soil Moisture Levels

Soil is the base for a strong foundation. Stable soil supports the foundation, whereas expansive soil can lead to foundation movement and settlement. Expansive soil tends to expand and contract with changes in moisture levels. It separates from the foundation when dry, creating gaps that allow water to pool. Drastic shifts can cause the foundation to crack, settle, and shift out of alignment.  

To avoid foundation movement, maintain a consistent soil moisture level. Lay soaker hoses around the foundation to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry seasons. Add mulch, such as wood chips, compost, and leaves, to the soil to improve moisture retention. Smart irrigation includes a sensor-based system that changes its watering schedule based on environmental conditions. 

Consider your local climate to determine which solution works best for your home. Homes in dry areas require more frequent watering. Homes in clay-heavy areas must maintain a stable soil moisture throughout the year. Adopt a robust strategy for soil moisture consistency to prevent extreme conditions that can damage the foundation. 

Improve Your Landscaping 

A well-designed landscape is a strategic solution to protect your foundation while improving your home’s curb appeal. The right plants retain moisture to prevent soil movement, while others prevent water from pooling around the foundation. Plant small native shrubs that contribute to soil health, and groundcovers and grasses that prevent soil erosion. Plant large trees at least 15 feet away, as their roots can damage foundation walls and cause water pooling. A properly graded landscape drains water away from the foundation, keeping it clean and dry. 

Repair Cracks Early 

Cracks are the first signs of stress on the foundation that can lead to serious problems. Hairline cracks are less than ⅛ of an inch and are considered minor. They might result from the natural settling of the foundation within two years of construction. Minor cracks can be fixed with polyurethane or epoxy injections. They seal the cracks and prevent future leaks, and strengthen the surrounding concrete. 

However, larger cracks accompanied by bowed walls are a cause for concern. Hydrostatic pressure, the weight of the home, and other factors can weaken the foundation and cause cracks. Any crack that continues to grow in size over time indicates problems such as soil movement or hydrostatic pressure on the foundation. 

Larger cracks require the expertise of foundation repair professionals. Ignoring these cracks can lead to pest infestation, moisture intrusion, and structural problems. Regular inspections and timely repairs help to prevent expensive repairs in the future. 

Add or Upgrade Gutters and Downspouts

Poor gutter systems are a major cause of foundation problems. Clogged or damaged gutters cause water to overflow and pool around the home, which can leak into the foundation and damage it. Properly functioning gutters drain water away from the home and protect the foundation. Poorly functioning systems saturate the soil around the home and lead to cracking, bowing, or settling foundation. 

Schedule a professional inspection or cleaning, especially at the end of spring and fall, when gutters are more likely to clog due to dirt and debris. Invest in high-quality gutter covers that prevent debris buildup and reduce maintenance needs. Consider the roof size, pitch, and rainfall intensity in your area when selecting the right size of gutter and downspouts. Consider adding seamless gutters with fewer breakage points that reduce maintenance and repair costs. 

Install a French Drain or Sump Pump

If your foundation faces water intrusion or your area has a high water table, you will need more robust solutions. Drain tile and sump pumps channel water away from the home’s base. They reduce the chances of water intrusion, cracks, and other structural problems. 

Drain tile includes a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that channels water away from the foundation. Sump pumps collect excess water pooling in the foundation and pump it out and away from the home. They are crucial in flood-prone areas but require frequent maintenance and replacement after a few years. 

Drain tile and sump pumps are effective measures to prevent moisture issues in the basement. They protect the foundation and extend its lifespan by decades. 

Reinforce the Foundation with Professional Solutions 

If you notice serious issues with your foundation, such as bowing walls, uneven floors, mold, and settlement, you need the experts for foundation repair or mold remediation. They have the knowledge and the right tools to repair these issues and restore the foundation. 

Piering includes installing steel or helical piers into the ground (in stable soil) to lift the foundation and offer long-term support. It is an effective solution for foundation settlement. 

Wall Anchors are the perfect solution for straightening bowing walls and preventing future cracks and leaks. Carbon fiber straps offer support and reinforce the foundation walls. 

Homeowners must consider these solutions when the foundation is severely damaged with bowing walls and sloping floors. Professional repair will also address the root cause of the issues. A reliable foundation company will conduct a thorough assessment and suggest the best solution for your home. Hire licensed and insured contractors who offer long-term strength and stability, along with a warranty on their services for your peace of mind. 

Final Thoughts

Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your foundation by decades. Early detection and prevention of issues protects the foundation’s integrity and prevents costly repairs. Simple steps like improving drainage, maintaining soil moisture levels, improving the landscape, and installing sump pumps and French drains protect your foundation from settlement and structural damage. If your home has large cracks, bowing walls, and settlement issues, hire professionals to restore your foundation. Be proactive and inspect your foundation today to identify its issues and offer the required support and repairs.