Why Proper Landscaping is Important for Your Home’s Foundation

You may put a lot of work into ensuring the interior of your home is in excellent condition, but do you apply that same level of care to the outside of your home?

Taking proper care of the exterior of your house is just as important as the inside – and one good place to start is with the landscape. Proper landscaping is vital for your home’s foundation, and a good foundation is essential for your home’s general functionality.

What is Proper Landscaping?

According to Dictionary.com, the definition of landscaping is “to improve the appearance of (an area of land, a highway, etc.), as by planting trees, shrubs, or grass, or altering the contours of the ground.”

What classifies as proper landscaping may be different depending on who you ask. However, all homeowners should note that some landscaping choices can potentially cause damage while others can protect your property.

In general, ensuring your property is properly landscaped is crucial for regulating the temperature of your home, keeping moisture out, and keeping your home stable.

One of the most common culprits that will negatively impact the foundation of a home is water. Luckily, there are some landscaping tips you can employ to minimize the risk of foundation water damage.

Ground Sloping

One way to prevent water from hurting your home is to landscape your property with a small slant of at least six inches over a distance of 10 feet (with your foundation being at the higher level). Remember to leave a bit of your foundation visible should you need to access it if any problems do arise.

In the event of heavy rainfall, draining water away from your foundation will help prevent foundation erosion, basement flooding, and soil deterioration.

Plants and Gardens

Another way to deter harm caused by water is to have some plants around your house – but not too close as roots can create foundation damage.

Since plants absorb water, planting certain types of vegetation can prevent your home from water damage. Natural grasses, native plants, trees, and bushes have long roots that can absorb large amounts of water. As an added bonus, you don’t need to water them as much!

A rain garden is another great way to collect and absorb water. Constructed with a deeper area built-in, rain gardens can help divert rainwater from a home’s foundation.

Conterra Foundation Can Help

Waterproofing your foundation’s exterior is also a good idea to prevent damage to your home. If you are dealing with water entering your home or experiencing any other foundation issues, Conterra Foundation is the solution for you.

Conterra Foundation has been helping homeowners in the Greater Hamilton Area since 1993. Whether you need help with exterior foundation waterproofing, foundation crack repair, foundation reinforcement, or anything in between, Conterra Foundation can get the job done.

Contact Conterra Foundation today for a free inspection and quote.