As the temperatures become more comfortable and the humidity drops, it’s time for Twin Cities homeowners to focus on fall tasks. No, we don’t mean run to get your pumpkin spice latte (well, that’s not the No. 1 item on our list). And we don’t even mean going to the apple orchard or driving to see the fall leaves, even though you should do that this fall.
No, we’re referring to home maintenance tasks, including preparing your home’s foundation for the chilly temperatures this fall and the freezing winter temperatures.
Check out these 10 essential steps our team at Christian Brothers put together to keep your foundation strong and prevent costly damage this winter.
1. Inspect for Cracks: Regularly inspect your foundation for any signs of cracks or damage. Our experts at Christian Brothers will look for gaps or fissures, especially around windows, doors, and corners. Even if there is a small crack, it’s essential to address it. These minor cracks can worsen over time, making it necessary to repair them as soon as possible.
2. Grade Your Yard: Ensure your yard slopes away from your foundation to prevent water from pooling and seeping into the soil. A professional can help perform proper grading to redirect water away from your home, reducing the risk of foundation damage.
3. Check Gutters and Downspouts: Spend a Saturday afternoon cleaning out gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and ensure rainwater flows away from your foundation. It’s worth spending a couple of hours doing this, as clogged gutters can lead to water damage if rainwater backs up and seeps into the soil around your foundation.
4. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Hire experts to seal any cracks or gaps in your foundation or exterior walls to prevent moisture from entering. This will help protect your foundation from water damage and prevent mold and mildew growth.
5. Insulate Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent them from freezing. If they do, they can burst in cold temperatures. This will help protect your house in January when the temperatures typically plunge across the Twin Cities.
6. Winterize Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and open them slightly to allow any remaining water to drain.
7. Protect Against Ice Dams: If you are prone to ice dams, take steps to prevent them. This may involve installing ice guards on your roof or hiring a professional to remove snow and ice buildup.
8. Remove Debris from Around Your Foundation: Clear away any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or mulch, piled up against your foundation. This will help prevent moisture from accumulating and seeping into the soil.
9. Check for Foundation Movement: Look for signs of foundation movement, such as cracked or uneven floors, doors or windows that stick, or gaps around baseboards. If you notice these signs, contact our Twin Cities foundation contractors to book an inspection.
10. Schedule Professional Foundation Inspections: Schedule regular foundation inspections with our professionals at Christian Brothers. They can identify potential problems early on and recommend appropriate solutions to prevent costly damage.
By following these 10 fall maintenance tips, you can help protect your foundation from the harsh effects of winter weather and ensure the longevity of your home.
Call Christian Brothers For Your Foundation Repair Services
When you need foundation repairs or maintenance at your Twin Cities home, hire our contractors at Christian Brothers. Contact us today for an estimate and schedule services to have our experts inspect your foundation and make necessary repairs. We specialize in finding and repairing complex foundation problems.
