In this article I will discuss three exterior components of the home that will help direct water away. If water is not properly directed away, it can cause damage to siding as well as cause structural problems.
The gutter system is designed to collect water from roof and direct it away from your home. By cleaning the gutters from debris and trimming tree branches away from home, you will ensure a smooth water flow into the downspouts.
Short downspouts are able to wash away the backfill (a less dense soil often mixed with sand or gravel) that sits against the foundation. This can cause settling on the corners of the house where the majority of the weight sits. Extending the downspouts beyond the backfill of the home (minimum of 6 feet) will prevent damage to home.
One of the reasons behind poured concrete foundation wall cracks is hydrostatic pressure. Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted on foundation wall due to the standing water against foundation wall changing its form from liquid into solid(Freezing). So you want to make sure there is not much water standing against the foundation.
The ground around the home should be sloped away from the home and a minimum of 4-6 inch reveal between the bottom of the exterior finish and the final grade should be maintained to prevent water entering the lower levels of the home.
Contact SafeCheck Home Inspection for questions or to book an appointment.
© 2024 Your Business Name. All rights reserved.