A good reason to water your foundation is to help stabilize the soils that lie beneath it. Clay in the soil expands when wet and shrinks when dry, making it capable of changing the support structure beneath your home. Thus, your home is at risk of foundation problems if it’s built on clay, especially if you live in an area that has long periods of little rainfall.
Soils that are well drained do not retain water in the way that clay does. Geological experts contend that wet conditions allow expansive soils to change in volume by as much as 10 percent. Drought allows them to decrease by an equal amount, and the unforgiving nature of concrete cannot withstand conditions that require it to bend.
Controlling water affects foundations
By establishing a constant level of moisture in the underlying soils, you can help prevent cracks in the slab, floors and walls in your house. As a homeowner, you can protect the structural integrity of your home by controlling the amount of water that affects your foundation. Consider taking these steps to eliminate the accumulation of water under your foundation:
• Create a slope
Directing rain water away from your house lets it soak into the surrounding area instead of accumulating below your foundation.
• Install rain gutters
Builders often do not always include gutters on homes, but they are essential in controlling rain water. If your home has rain gutters, make sure that they are funneling water to downspouts that direct water away from your house.
• Turn off garden hoses
When watering near your house, don’t forget to turn the water off to avoid over-soaking the foundation.
• Remove water-hungry trees and shrubs
Roots of large plants near your foundation can soak up the moisture that stabilizes the soil. Damage occurs slowly and is usually difficult to detect until you see cracks in your walls.
Setting up a systematic plan
A slow application of water that allows clay to retain a constant formation is a good way to control the volume. Install a hose around the perimeter of your home that emits a slow stream that you can monitor. Avoiding expensive foundation repairs is an excellent reason to water your foundation properly to protect its structural integrity.
Post Author: andyc.
