7 Things Homeowners Should Keep in Mind About Foundations

Your home’s foundation is the backbone of the entire structure. A strong foundation keeps your home solid and safe, while issues with your foundation can lead to costly problems down the road. Understanding your foundation, identifying potential issues, and taking preventive measures can help protect your investment. This article will cover what every homeowner needs to know.

Jump to article sections:

1. Signs Your Foundation May Need Attention
2. The Importance of Moisture Control for Foundation Health
3. Common Causes of Foundation Issues
4. Preventive Measures to Protect Your Home’s Foundation
5. When to Call in the Experts
6. Foundation Repairs Every Homeowner Should Know About
7. The Role of Waterproofing in Foundation Longevity
8. Zablocki Waterproofing: Your Trusted Foundation Experts

1. Signs Your Foundation May Need Attention

Not all foundation problems are immediately visible, but there are clear warning signs that homeowners should watch for. Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings—especially those wider than a quarter inch—can indicate foundation shifting. Uneven floors, squeaky or sticking doors, and windows that no longer open smoothly may also point to underlying foundation issues.

Other indicators include gaps around exterior doors or windows and water pooling near your home’s perimeter. Ignoring these signs can lead to more severe problems, so it’s crucial to act promptly if you spot them.

Read more in our two-part guide on common signs of foundation issues – part 1 and part 2.

2. The Importance of Moisture Control for Foundation Health

Excessive moisture is one of the most common culprits behind foundation issues. When water seeps into the soil beneath your home, it can cause the ground to expand or contract, which in turn stresses the foundation.

To protect your foundation, ensure your home’s gutters are clear and direct water away from the structure. Grading the soil around your home to slope away from the foundation is another vital step. Additionally, consider installing a French drain or sump pump if water tends to collect near your home after heavy rain.

3. Common Causes of Foundation Issues

Foundation problems often stem from natural forces, like shifting soil. Clay soil, in particular, can expand when wet and shrink when dry, leading to uneven support for your home. Extreme weather—such as droughts or heavy rains—exacerbates this effect.

Landscaping near the home can also play a role. Large trees or shrubs planted too close to the foundation may have roots that disrupt the soil’s stability or draw excessive moisture from the ground. Even poor construction practices or old age can contribute to foundation deterioration over time.

4. Preventive Measures to Protect Your Home’s Foundation

Regular maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs. Conduct routine inspections of your foundation to catch minor issues before they become major problems. Look for cracks, bulges, or other irregularities and check surrounding areas for pooling water.

Simple steps, like keeping your gutters clean and maintaining proper landscaping, can go a long way. Avoid planting large trees too close to your home, and use mulch sparingly to reduce soil moisture levels. If you live in an area with extreme weather, investing in seasonal maintenance can help mitigate damage caused by temperature and precipitation changes.

5. When to Call in the Experts

Knowing when to call a professional is just as important as noticing the warning signs. If you see significant foundation cracks, major shifts in flooring, or ongoing water damage, it’s time to seek help.

A licensed foundation contractor will assess the severity of the issue and recommend the best course of action. An inspection typically includes examining drainage, soil conditions, and signs of structural stress inside and outside your home. Professional help ensures the problem is addressed properly, saving you time and money in the long run.

6. Foundation Repairs Every Homeowner Should Know About

There are several common repair methods, depending on the type and extent of the damage. Minor cracks can often be sealed with epoxy or polyurethane foam, while more extensive issues may require underpinning. Underpinning adds support to your foundation using steel piers or concrete pilings.

Other methods include slabjacking, where grout material is pumped beneath the foundation to lift it, and using wall anchors to stabilize shifting walls. It’s important to understand your options and get multiple quotes to ensure you’re making the right choice for both your home and your budget.

7. The Role of Waterproofing in Foundation Longevity

Waterproofing is one of the best ways to prolong the life of your foundation. Protecting your home from excess moisture can prevent many of the common issues we’ve discussed.

Options for basement waterproofing include exterior solutions like applying a waterproof sealant to the foundation walls or installing a membrane. Interior solutions, such as adding a sump pump or vapor barrier, can also help mitigate moisture issues. Ensuring your basement or crawl space stays dry is a critical step in maintaining the overall health of your foundation.

8. Zablocki Waterproofing: Your Trusted Foundation Experts

It’s an important task for a homeowner to keep an eye out for any of these early warning signs that foundation repair might be necessary. Calling in the help of foundation contractors at the earliest possible point can help you as a homeowner by saving you from potentially disastrous damages in the future.

For those seeking foundation repair in the greater Milwaukee area, look no further than Zablocki Waterproofing. We have been proudly offering basement foundation repair, basement repair and basement waterproofing since 1985. We offer the best Milwaukee foundation repair services in the region, with a dedicated team of professionals. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact Zablocki Waterproofing today for all your foundation repair needs!