Your home needs a strong foundation

Guest Commentary
March 2, 2008

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Most homeowners view their foundation or concrete floor slab as a massive and invulnerable object. It is indeed quite strong; however, foundation damage can occur from tree roots or detrimental soil conditions; and of course, water intrusion also is a concern.

Some simple tips can help keep foundations fit and solid for many years to come. Many foundation threats can be avoided with some long-term planning. Avoid planting trees and even large shrubs close to your foundation. Over the years, growing roots could push against foundation walls and draw moisture from the soil under foundation footings.

Water seepage problems or even heavy stains or efflorescence on foundation walls can indicate the presence of soil-moisture conditions that can contribute to foundation movement. Efflorescence is a white or gray powder that forms on masonry surfaces and is typically an indication that moisture is or was present in the wall.

Checking and improving the exterior grading and drainage is a first step to keeping moisture away -- and minimizing the potential for excessive soil pressures that could adversely affect the foundation. Maintain a positive slope away from the foundation (a minimum 15-degree angle is usually enough) so that roof and surface water will not seep in.

Also check your gutters and downspouts to be sure they are functioning properly, and direct water away from the foundation. If these basic measures do not work, subsurface foundation drains or other grading and drainage work may be needed.

If your basement or crawl space has a sump pit and pump, be certain that there are no obstructions near the pump that could impede its operation. Be sure that the pump's discharge line directs the water far away from your foundation wall; otherwise, you could end up with "re-circulating" water. If you are in an area vulnerable to power outages and you rely heavily on your sump pump, consider supplementing it with a battery-powered backup model.

Paying close attention to current and possible future stresses on the foundation can prevent costly and time-intensive repairs in the future. A home's structure is only as strong as its foundation, so keeping it strong -- and watertight -- should be every homeowner's priority. Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. because each house and situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific condition or issue.

Randy Moser is a broker associate with Sears Real Estate and serves on the board of directors of the Greeley Area Realtor Association.