5 Foundation Maintenance Tips for Homeowners in Ohio

The foundation repair service market will be worth $2,655.7 million in 2022 and $3,027.4 million by 2027, with a historical CAGR of 2.3% from 2013 to 2021.

With so much dust in your house, it’s crucial to perform foundation maintenance to protect your home. Your foundation is what your whole home stands for.

Saving your home isn’t a way to extend its useful life, but it’s a way to keep the total value of your investment in the long run. It’s an essential piece of your home that needs maintenance over time. Without it, your home will become damaged, unstable, and more.

You’re in the right place if you need help maintaining your home. Here are our foundation maintenance tips for homeowners in Ohio.

1. Winterizing Foundation Before the Cold Season

Before the cold season sets in, Ohio homeowners should take precautions to winterize their foundation. Poor insulation and cold drafts can seep through the basement when temperatures drop, raising energy costs and causing water damage. The best way to start is by examining the foundation and checking for any cracks or gaps.

During the inspection, search for holes that are no larger than an eighth of an inch. Such cracks can be with an expanding foam sealant or hydraulic cement mixture. If there are large cracks, they should be assessed by an expert.

Homeowners may also consider caulking around windows, inside and outside, and using weatherstripping to ensure proper insulation. Air sealing should also be around gas and electricity lines, as disconnects can cause cold air to enter and heat to escape. Finally, installing a sump pump can help control water and reduce flooding.

2. Keeping Water Away from Basement Walls

Water seepage can cause moisture to build up, leading to potential flooding and foundation damage. Start by checking for signs of water infiltration, such as mold and discoloration of the walls or floors. If necessary, repoint any joint between the walls and the foundation, so rainwater is away from the basement.

To reduce water exposure, consider installing a sump pump. This device collects water and pumps it away from the house.

Ensure that the sump pump and its discharge are in working order, and check the area around your foundation for standing water or signs of leakage. In Ohio, ensuring water does not reach the basement walls is critical for homeowners.

3. Differentiating the Types of Foundations

Homeowners in Ohio need to understand the different types of foundation to maintain them properly. Several types include crawl spaces, basements, pier and beam, and slab foundations.

Crawl spaces

These are standard foundations designed to provide a space between a home’s foundation and its first floor. Rather than living space, this area is intended to accommodate utility lines, plumbing, and HVAC systems. It also provides a more excellent visual appearance to the home and greater stability in the event of a natural disaster, like a hurricane.

Basements

A basement foundation is an area below the ground for storage, work, or recreation. It is a concrete or poured wall- both offer a high level of waterproofing and provide stability against lateral loads.

Pier and Beams

Pier and beam foundations are popular in residential buildings, garages, and small structures. This type of foundation bears the entire weight of the system and transfers it to the soil.

The beams are between the piers and bear most of the weight, thus allowing for ventilation to take place beneath the structure. These foundations give access to plumbing and wiring and improved drainage.

Slab Foundations

Slab foundations feature a concrete slab that’s poured directly onto the soil. This foundation is created by pouring thick concrete slabs on the spot, either underground or above the ground. They are a simple, quick, and cost-effective option that lends itself well to most buildings.

They also provide a reliable base for the construction of the building on a variety of soils. They need minimal maintenance; however, due to their mass, slabs can be susceptible to frost or soil heaves or shifts. Many slab foundations include monolithic, footing, and engineered options.

4. Utilizing Professional Maintenance Services

Professional maintenance services from a reliable company will help keep your home functioning efficiently and save you money in the long run. Home maintenance can prevent costly repairs and keep the home looking and feeling great. You can check Foundation Solutions 360 for some professional advice.

You can check for any potential issues that may arise, such as faulty wiring and plumbing problems. They also advise on energy efficiency, air conditioning, heating, and ventilation.

It can also help improve the lifespan of the appliances and the home. Homeowners should also consider scheduling routine checks on the HVAC system and plumbing and cleaning carpets and windows.

5. Supplies for DIY Foundation Maintenance

DIY foundation maintenance is a great way to keep foundation cracks and other problems at bay. The homeowner should start by ensuring they have the right supplies. It includes sealants, caulks, rubber membranes, hydraulic cement, epoxy systems, masonry patch, foundation sealers, and more.

Aside from that, essential tools such as a hammer, level, and drill with assorted drill bits are necessary. Having some hydraulic cement on hand is also suitable for patching up small cracks and crevices. It can also involve fixing leaky pipes and faucets.

To do this, pipe repair kits and putty are must-haves. Make sure to regularly inspect your foundation and your home’s drainage system, gutter system, and window wells for any foundation leaks and issues. An assortment of nuts, bolts, screws, and washers provide a source of secure fasteners for a variety of projects.

Keep Your Home Safe and Well Maintained

Ohio homeowners should always prioritize foundation maintenance to prevent any costly damages due to weather and water-based damages. Remember to incorporate the tips above to protect your home and its foundation. Contact a local professional to get the job done right if you need any assistance.

For more information on improving the longevity of your home, continue browsing our site.