For your structure to be stable, it needs a solid foundation. However, since the foundation is out of sight, it tends to be out of mind too. As a result, foundation problems tend to remain undetected, and this eventually affects the structural integrity of your building. A misconception some people have is that foundational issues spring up spontaneously. In truth, these problems occur cumulatively, and when they finally manifest in your structure, your home will likely require intensive foundation repairs. Additionally, you would also have to invest in various forms of restoration around your primary structure, too. Luckily, there are a number of measures that you can take to prevent the need for foundation repairs. Read on for tips that can help you prolong the lifespan of your foundation.

Keep the soil hydrated

Australia is famed for its sunny weather for most times of the year. And although this constant sunshine is great for outdoor living, it can be detrimental to your foundation. Direct sunlight for a prolonged period will cause the soil around your foundation to dry up. As the soil dries, it starts to contract away from the foundation, which causes the foundation to lose some of its stability. If the drying of the soil is not addressed, the foundation develops cracks that will eventually spread to your structure. The best way of preventing this is to ensure that the soil is kept hydrated. You could choose to hose down the soil manually on a routine basis, or you could opt to install irrigation systems for added convenience, especially if you live in a drought-stricken region.

Ensure efficient drainage

Dry soil is detrimental to your foundation, but it should also be noted that waterlogged soil is a risk factor too! When the soil around the foundation has soaked up too much water, it is bound to expand. The expanding soul then starts to exert pressure onto the foundation walls, which causes the structure to shift. Moreover, the increased pressure also poses the risk of forming cracks in the foundation, which leads to moisture seeping into the foundation and causing further damage. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you have installed drainage mechanisms that will direct the excess water away from your home, particularly if you are utilising irrigation systems to keep the soil hydrated. You should also ensure that your gutters and downspouts are working optimally, as they could also contribute to waterlogging around your foundation.