The height of New Jersey Hurricane season runs from mid-August through November, which means above-average stormwater and flooding and potential damage to homes and properties with inadequate stormwater drainage solutions. A proactive approach will help shield home foundations from damage, keep necessary landscaping intact, and prevent soil erosion and basement flooding.
Why be Proactive about Stormwater Drainage Management?
Excess water around home foundations can lead to cracks and shifts, causing long-term structural damage. Keeping water away from the home's base is crucial to maintaining its stability and market value.
Good drainage prevents soil erosion by protecting lawns, plants, and greenery from overwatering and root rot, keeping structures stable and healthy.
Effective drainage systems reduce the risk of flooding in the yard, basement, and crawl space, keeping homes dry and safe.
Proactive Stormwater Drainage Steps to Protect Home Value
Inspection and Planning: Inspect the property thoroughly to identify problem areas and determine the best solutions.
Gutters and Downspouts: These are the first line of defense. They collect rainwater from the roof and channel it away from the house. Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to keep them functioning correctly.
Grading Adjustments: Proper grading is essential. Regrade parts of the yard if necessary to ensure water flows away from the home, preventing basement flooding and foundation issues. Contact Toby Barkman Excavation for grading projects that require heavy machinery.
Install Drainage Systems: Based on the inspection, consider installing drains, dry wells, swales, or catch basins to improve drainage.
French Drains: These are trenches filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirect surface and groundwater away from the property. French drains are especially useful in areas with poor drainage.
Dry Wells: These underground structures collect and gradually disperse water into the ground, reducing runoff and erosion.
Swales: Shallow, vegetated channels designed to direct water away from structures and towards areas where it can safely soak into the ground.
Catch Basins: Installed at low points around your property, catch basins collect water and debris, preventing clogging and overflow.
Investing in a stormwater drainage system and ensuring proper grading protects your property from immediate issues and enhances its longevity and value. If you have specific concerns or areas you want to focus on, we can tailor our approach to meet your needs.
Signs of Home Foundation Damage
Cracks in Walls and Floors
Interior Cracks: Look for cracks in drywall, especially around doorways, windows,
and where walls meet ceilings.
Exterior Cracks: Examine the exterior of your home for cracks in the brickwork or foundation itself.
Floor Cracks: Check for cracks in tile or concrete floors, which may indicate shifting.
Doors and Windows That Stick or Don't Close Properly
If doors and windows are suddenly difficult to open or close, or if they don't latch properly, this could be a sign of foundation movement.
Uneven or Sloping Floors
Floors visibly uneven or sloped may indicate that the foundation has shifted and is no longer level.
Gaps Around Window Frames or Exterior Doors
Gaps that appear between window frames or doors and the surrounding walls can signal that the foundation is moving.
Bowing or Buckling Walls
Walls that appear to bow or buckle inward or outward are a severe sign of foundation problems.
Water Damage in Basement or Crawl Spaces
Persistent moisture, standing water, or mold growth in basements or crawl spaces can weaken the foundation over time.
Chimney Issues
A leaning or cracked chimney can indicate that the foundation beneath it is shifting.
Expansion Joint Separation
Expansion joints that are widening or separating more than usual can point to foundation movement.
コメント