Preventing Building Foundation Movement: 5 Essential Tips for Property Owners
Ensuring the durability of your property is a fundamental priority. Implementing practical and thoughtful maintenance practices can significantly contribute to the longevity of your structure. Let us explore five essential recommendations that protect your investment.
- Value Site Drainage: Guard Against Water Woes
One of the keys of structural care is diligent site drainage maintenance. Refrain from altering the builder-provided drainage system, ensuring water is promptly directed away from your home. Prevent any water accumulation around the foundation and slab system, and exercise caution to prevent channelling water towards neighbouring properties. This simple step can make a substantial difference in preserving your structure’s longevity.
- Thoughtful Landscaping on Reactive Clay Sites
Mindful landscaping can be a structural saviour, especially on reactive clay sites. Refrain from placing gardens or garden edging close to the building, as these can retain excess water and induce moisture variations around the structure. By opting for a strategic approach to landscaping, you can significantly contribute to the stability and longevity of your property.
- Watering for Highly Reactive Site
On highly and extremely reactive sites common across Australia, smart watering practices are key. Installing sprinkler systems near your dwelling may seem convenient, but it is best to avoid it. Instead, opt for consistent and moderate watering. Over-watering can lead to detrimental effects like clay soils expanding and cracking the home, so a balanced approach to watering is the wiser path to safeguard your structure.
- Strategically Plant Trees for Structural Protection
Planting trees strategically is a long-term investment in your structure’s well-being. Ensure you maintain an adequate distance between the building and trees, corresponding to the tree’s mature height. Adhere to site-specific guidelines for optimal landscaping that balances the aesthetics and the structural health of your property. Root barrier systems could also be considered where trees cannot be removed.
- Proactive Maintenance of Plumbing and Drainage Systems
Regular checks and prompt repairs at the first sign of leaks or damage can prevent potential structural issues. Keep an eye out for subtle signs like seepage and greener lawns, or any minor cracking exceeding 3-5mm in walls or ceilings.
By following these carefully outlined practices, you prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. It is about safeguarding your investment and enjoying a secure and enduring home.
We recommend you contact Booth Engineers and Associates or another suitably qualified professional engineer with experience in assessing and rectifying damaged structures to evaluate your property today.
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For more information, or to get a quote , please contact our team.