If you have been paying attention to local weather reports you may have heard about the latest tips on How to keep ground water off your foundation. Here are the basics tips:
First, contrary to earlier reports that said drenches could be used to keep ground water away from foundations. The results were just as effective as those made of metal.It’s a good idea to buy a pump to pump out standing water if you need to use it to prevent flooding. Also, it’s important not to add too much to the standing water, as it can cause damage to the ground. A gallon of water added every five feet is the maximum you should go over.
Second, seal any porous materials, such as concrete walkways, around your home. If the ground water starts to pour in, this will help prevent it from seeping into the interior of the house and corroding its internal parts. The best way to do this, according to Coleman, is to put asphalt shingles on the walkways. You should also check out other ways to seal your walkways, such as using paint or grout, But sealers aren’t necessary.
Third, to keep ground water away from the foundation, dig a trench around the outside of the foundation on the exterior wall. Trenches only take a few minutes to dig, so it won’t take you long to fill with the sediment needed to level the foundation off. If your foundation has a crack, it may be even easier to repair.
Lastly, when it comes to the basement, there are several options to combat water damage that is so serious that it can spread to the main house. First, if the water is seeping into the house, sealing the base and surrounding areas is absolutely essential. Any cracks in the foundation must be repaired, as well as any other places where water can get through. For basements, it’s always a good idea to use a sump pump. Otherwise, open up the windows and use fans to keep the water away from the foundation.
In sum, we’ve learned that it’s important to learn how to keep ground water away from your home. Repair leaking roofs, waterproof crawlspaces and use the right sump pumps and other technology to keep water away from foundations. There are a few other things that you can do, as well, to keep your foundation in good shape. The more you learn about foundation repair and other home improvement methods, the better off you’ll be in the long run. Don’t wait until your house is already in trouble!
