MAINTENANCE
Sump Pump
Maintain your sump pump and do regular checks to ensure it is working.
Keep Your Basement Clean
Cleaning your foundation yearly helps to clear buildup which could help instigate and worsen cracks on the wall.
Maintain Moisture Levels
Run a dehumidifier in your basement.
Maintain and Clean Windows
Prevent your windows from leaking by leaving your window well covers on, keeping the tracks clean, clear of debris and paying attention to any visible holes and openings.
Crack Repair
If you notice a wall crack, you should address the problem promptly and seek advice from a professional.
Maintain Roof Drainage
When gutters and downspouts are poorly installed, water drainage near the foundation can lead to lateral pressure and eventually can crack your foundation. The water should be drained about 5 feet from the walls to avoid flooding near the foundation.
Correct Landscape Grade
Your grade should be 4 to 8 inches below the top of your foundation and flow away from your home's foundation, not along it. If grade is relatively flat near the foundation, consider calling a contractor to correct the issue.
Seal Your Garage Floors
Vehicles track salt and other chemicals into the garage, which can be damaging to your concrete. Applying a sealer to your floor every few years can help protect your floor from this damage. Be sure to regularly clean your garage floor to keep these substances from sitting on the floor for long periods of time.
Avoid Deicing Chemicals
Calcium chloride, which is an ingredient used in deicers, can cause surface damage to your exterior concrete. They are harmful as they attack the concrete chemically and may cause scaling or spalling. Concrete that is poured within one year is more susceptible to the harmful affects of salt. As an alternative option, use sand or cat litter for traction.
