How to Take Care of Your Foundation in Summers? - Experts Talk
Oklahomans love summers. After the long dreary spell of winter, nothing is more welcome than a fresh burst of sunshine soaking you to the soul. But are summers really all sunshine and roses? Unfortunately, no. The summer months are not kind on most foundations. The extreme heat and dryness can send homeowners scurrying after foundation repairs.
Below we are going to make a checklist of all the critical areas in a foundation that one should keep a close eye on.
#1 Look for Cracks Along the Walls of the Structure
Cracks in the building - along the floors or interior and exterior walls of the building are usually the first signs a faulty foundation gives off. Take some time to carefully check the walls of your home for cracks that weren’t there before. Usually, hairline cracks aren’t an issue of concern. But if the cracks just keep appearing and begin to open up, chances are the problem runs deeper (literally) than you anticipated.
Look inside the fireplace, the surface of the floorboards, and even the sheet rocks for suspicious cracks and fissures. Also, check the windows and doors and their frames.
#2 Examine Your Watering Systems
Summers in OKC are punctuated by spells of extreme dryness. It may seem to be a relief from the storms, but the dry weather can be hard on your foundation. A good way to combat this problem is by installing water systems. But merely having watering systems in place is not enough. You will also need to make sure that they run at optimal efficiency.
When the soil gets dry, it shrinks and ends up causing foundation problems, including shifting. Watering the soil regularly keeps the moisture levels intact and saves you from costly, tedious foundation repairs.
#3 Detect Any Issues with the Plumbing
Speaking of water, have you checked if your home’s plumbing is doing okay? A sudden, unexplained rise in the water bill or random pools of ware under the slabs can be indicative of a foundation falling to disrepair. Equally perturbing is the fact that plumbing leaks, when left unaddressed for too long, can ruin a previously good foundation as well.
#4 Do Your Doors and Windows Stick Out?
A moving foundation may also manifest doors and windows jutting out from their frames. You might also notice the hinges are askew and difficulty in opening or closing your doors. Often the locks become difficult to operate. Such signs are a good reason to get your home’s foundation checked out.
Ram Jack by American Leveling Company as the Ultimate Solution to Foundation Repairs
The Ram Jack system is a patented piling system offered by the American Leveling Company. This can permanently secure foundations to the point that you never have to worry about another foundation repair again. Need help with your residential or commercial property in OKC? We can help! Drop us a line at 405-787-9229.