Fall Home Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Foundation

  Fall Home Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Foundation

As summer ends and the cooler, wetter weather of fall sets in, it’s the perfect time to give your home’s foundation some extra attention. The key to protecting your home is to manage moisture, which is the primary cause of foundation damage in regions with expansive clay soil, like Illinois and Missouri.

Here are essential fall maintenance tips to protect your foundation and prevent costly issues.

1. Manage Your Gutters and Downspouts

• Clean Them Out: Fall leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters, causing water to overflow and pool directly next to your foundation. Make it a priority to clear them out regularly.

• Extend Your Downspouts: Ensure that your downspouts are long enough to direct water at least 5-10 feet away from your foundation. You can purchase downspout extensions at any home improvement store.

2. Check the Grade of Your Yard

The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation. Over time, soil can settle, creating low spots where water collects. Add compacted soil to these areas to ensure a proper slope, directing rainwater away from the foundation walls.

3. Inspect Your Foundation for Cracks

Perform a visual inspection of your foundation walls, both inside the basement and on the exterior.

• Seal Small Cracks: For hairline cracks, you can use a concrete caulk or sealant to prevent water from seeping in.

• Address Larger Cracks: If you find larger cracks (wider than a quarter-inch), or notice cracks that are widening, it’s a sign of significant movement. It's best to call a professional for an inspection to determine the underlying cause.

4. Prepare Your Basement and Crawl Space

• Test Your Sump Pump: With the likelihood of heavy fall rains, make sure your sump pump is working correctly. Test it by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure it activates and drains the water.

• Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier in your basement or crawl space to keep moisture levels in check. High humidity can lead to condensation on foundation walls, which can contribute to mold and mildew.

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Fall is a good time to insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas to prevent them from freezing and bursting during a sudden cold snap.

By taking these preventative steps, you can help safeguard your foundation against the damaging effects of seasonal weather and ensure your home stays stable for years to come.