Due to our constant need to utilize every square inch of available space, finished and functional basements are becoming much more common. It’s the perfect spot for an entertainment center for when the kids have friends over. It’s a prime area to build a bar for when you have friends over. There might even be space for the office (or hiding spot) you’ve always wanted. Unfortunately, this also means a leaking foundation becomes much more than an inconvenience. There are a few preventative steps that you, the homeowner, can take to avoid a moment that will inevitably trigger some choice four-letter words. Most of these measures revolve around the idea of diverting water from the home and preventative maintenance.
Regularly cleaning your gutters will prevent an overflow that could cause water to pool at the foundation. Installing downspout extenders and leaf guards will also help to guide water away from the home, preventing a leaking foundation. The soil around your home should be highest at the foundation and sloped at one-quarter inch per foot. This will direct rainwater toward your yard instead of your home. Additionally, trees with aggressive roots should be planted at least 20 feet away from your house. Roots can grow into the concrete, cracking it and increasing the likelihood of a leaking foundation.
If you notice any existing cracks, they need to be repaired right away. A leaking foundation can only occur if there is a space to leak from. By using cement to fill any cracks or holes you may find, you can eliminate those damaging leaks for good. Waterproofing your home is also a key preventative step for a leaking foundation. While it may be difficult for one person to waterproof the entire perimeter of the home, it is a fairly simple process. You can also choose to hire the help or only waterproof the problem spots. To do this, you can purchase an exterior foundation-waterproofing liquid. Dig the dirt away from the spot you’re working with, paint the liquid onto the foundation’s exterior, let it dry and replace the dirt; being sure to pack the soil tightly and maintain the downward slope.
Taking these steps will often prevent a leaking foundation for good, but as most homeowners know, some pains can’t be 100% eliminated. A leaking foundation isn’t usually considered “sudden and accidental,” which means it may not be covered under your home insurance plan; however, it could very well fall under a homeowners or construction warranty.
Serving the Metro Detroit area, including Troy, Royal Oak, Birmingham, West Bloomfield, Farmington Hills and many more, Bloomfield Construction can help dry out water damage caused by a leaking foundation. If you end up finding yourself in one of those soggy-carpet, dripping-walls situations, call the experts at Bloomfield Construction at 248-809-5551.
