Things to Avoid Around Your House Foundation

HOME FOUNDATION

The foundation of your home is the cornerstone of its structural integrity; it’s so important to make sure your foundation is properly maintained. Unfortunately, there are some common mistakes homeowners make when it comes to their home foundations that can lead to major problems down the road. Here, we talk about what not to do around your house foundation in order to ensure its longevity and protect your biggest investment from costly damage.   Don’t plant trees, bushes, and shrubs too close to the foundation  When it comes to landscaping, it’s important to think beyond just the aesthetic appeal of your plants. While trees, bushes, and shrubs can certainly add charm to your home’s exterior, it’s crucial to consider their proximity to your foundation. Planting too close to your home can lead to damage to plumbing and walls over time. As roots grow, they can wrap around and infiltrate pipes, causing costly repairs. Additionally, close planting can lead to excess moisture, which can seep into your foundation and cause mold and mildew problems. So, when selecting your landscaping, be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your home – a little distance can go a long way.   Avoid storing heavy items (such as mowers or furniture) near the foundation Your home is one of your biggest investments, so it’s important to take care of it. One thing you may not realize is that storing heavy items near the foundation can actually cause damage to your walls and floors. Mowers, furniture, and other heavy objects can put undue pressure on the foundation and cause it to crack over time. These cracks can then extend to the walls and floors, potentially causing serious structural damage. To avoid costly repairs down the road, be sure to store heavy items away from the foundation, and if you notice any cracks or other signs of damage, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible. By taking these steps, you can help protect your home and keep it looking its best for years to come.   Don’t pile up mulch or dirt next to the house’s foundation Your home is meant to be a sanctuary, a place where you can enjoy comfort and safety. Unfortunately, pests like termites can quickly ruin your cozy haven. These tiny invaders are drawn to moisture and darkness, making your home’s foundation the perfect location for them to set up shop. That’s why you should avoid piling up dirt or mulch next to your home. When you create a damp environment near your foundation, you’re essentially rolling out the welcome mat for termites and other insects. Instead, make sure your home’s perimeter is clear of debris and conducive to proper drainage. With these preventive measures in place, you’ll have a better chance of keeping your home pest-free and truly comfortable.   Don’t use excessively high water pressure around your house foundation Your home’s foundation provides the necessary support to keep your house standing strong and stable. But

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The Benefits of Adding Deck to Your House

HOME DECK

Adding a deck to your home can offer numerous benefits. From increasing the value of your house to providing an outdoor area where you and your family can be together, building a deck is almost certainly an upgrade worth making. Whether you choose to construct it yourself or hire professionals, read on for our top five reasons why adding a deck could be one of the best decisions you make for your home this year! Increase your property value and create an outdoor living space As a homeowner, investing in your property is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. A great way to increase your property value and create a true oasis is by constructing an outdoor living space. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee on a cozy patio or hosting a barbecue in a stunning backyard that is both functional and beautiful. With the right design and features, outdoor living space can become an extension of your home, creating a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living. Not only will you and your loved ones benefit from this added space, but it will also attract potential buyers if you ever decide to sell your property. It’s time to unlock your property’s full potential and create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Design the perfect deck with materials that best suit your home’s style and climate Designing the perfect deck is crucial in achieving that ideal backyard oasis. But what makes a deck perfect? It’s one that blends seamlessly with the home’s style and can withstand the climate it’s in. Choosing the right materials is essential in achieving this. For example, if your home is more traditional or has a classic design, natural wood such as cedar or redwood can be a great choice. For homes with a contemporary feel, composite materials are an excellent option. Taking into account the climate is also important – if you reside in an area with harsh climates, pressure-treated wood may be the way to go. The possibilities are endless, and with careful consideration to style and climate, your deck can be the perfect addition to your beautiful home. Enjoy more quality time with family and friends outside In today’s fast-paced world, spending quality time with loved ones can be a challenge. But what better way to connect with family and friends than in the great outdoors? Whether it’s camping, hiking, biking, or simply having a picnic in the park, there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy. Not only does it allow you to disconnect from technology and distractions, but it also promotes physical activity and well-being. So next time you’re thinking of ways to bond with your loved ones, step outside and experience the beauty of nature together. You may be surprised at how much closer you become. Enhance your curb appeal and neighborhood atmosphere In today’s modern world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Yet, there’s something special about

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How to Know if You Need Foundation Repair

It can be confusing to know whether the small cracks in your house are not exactly a problem or when you already need the help of a professional. Remember that problems with the foundation may result in other possible repairs, so you need to have them fixed immediately. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to find out whether it’s time for a foundation repair. Identifying Foundation Problems The cracks around your house can appear for various reasons. It can be hard to determine whether a crack is simply because the house is settling with age or it is a sign of a bigger problem. Some factors that can affect the way your house settles include the weather and soil, which can create unsafe gaps under the foundation. Checking the Cracks Walk inside and outside your house regularly and mark the cracks you see. Keep a record of the size of the crack and the date. The next time you go around the house, check the cracks again to see if things are getting worse. Moreover, check if there is any damage in the ceiling, walls, basements, and crawl spaces. If there’s a crack bigger than 1/16th of an inch, you need to call an expert. Foundation repair companies can provide protection for your abode’s interior and can tell you if the crack can affect overall functionality. Cracks can differ in size and can be located in different places in the house. They also pose varying levels of danger. So, it’s crucial that you can distinguish between cracks that simply need a quick patch and the ones that can cause serious harm. Cracked or uneven doors and windows – hairline cracks on windows can indicate that the foundation underneath the house is shifting. The foundation is shifting if the cracks widen during your monitoring. See whether the doors and windows open and close properly. Doors that malfunction or stick, and uneven doors and windows that do not fit squarely can be a sign that you need home foundation repair. Cracked floors – broken or cracked tiles indicate problems in the foundation underneath. Hollow-sounding or loose tiles could mean that the foundation has sunk, creating an uneven surface in your home. Cracks in the concrete – small cracks in the exposed concrete could mean a non-structural issue, but deep, vertical cracks are possibly structural problems. If you leave a suspicious crack unattended, the structural integrity of your house could be affected. The load-bearing capability of the walls can be compromised, possibly leading to a dangerous collapse. A lot of people do not pay attention to foundation issues in their house until these become a bigger problem. If you do this, you’re making your home a dangerous place to live in and at the same time, making foundation repair more costly. If you live in the Greater Houston area and search online for “foundation repair near me,” you should be able to find a few good results such as Level Pro Foundation Repair

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