How to Maintain Your House’s Foundation

A home’s foundation is its structural backbone, supporting everything from walls and floors to plumbing and electrical systems. In a coastal town like Falmouth, where seasonal weather changes, high moisture levels, and shifting soil conditions can pose challenges, maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs and protect property value. By following a few key strategies, homeowners can ensure their foundation remains stable, dry, and structurally sound for years to come.

1. Keep Water Away from the Foundation

Proper Drainage Is Key

One of the biggest threats to a foundation is excess water. When water pools around the base of a home, it can seep into cracks, cause soil erosion, and lead to foundation shifting or settling. Proper drainage is especially critical in Falmouth, where coastal storms and heavy rains are common.

To keep water away from the foundation:

Ensure gutters and downspouts are functioning properly. Clean them regularly and direct downspouts at least five feet away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling.
Grade the landscape to encourage water runoff. The soil should slope away from the home to keep water from collecting near the foundation.
Install French drains or dry wells to divert excess rainwater, especially in areas prone to flooding.
Check for pooling after storms. If water is consistently gathering near your foundation, consider adding more drainage solutions.

2. Monitor and Repair Foundation Cracks Early

Small Cracks Can Lead to Bigger Problems

It’s natural for small hairline cracks to appear in a foundation over time. However, ignoring them can lead to serious structural issues. In a coastal climate like Falmouth’s, freeze-thaw cycles and shifting soil can cause cracks to widen, allowing moisture to penetrate and weaken the foundation.

To prevent further damage:

Inspect your foundation seasonally for any new or expanding cracks.
Seal small cracks (1/8 inch or smaller) with a high-quality masonry sealant to prevent moisture infiltration.
Consult a professional for larger cracks (wider than 1/4 inch), as they may indicate a more serious foundation shift.

While this may seem like an added project, early detection and repair are far less expensive than dealing with a faulty foundation later.

3. Control Moisture Levels in Your Basement or Crawl Space

Preventing Excess Humidity

Basements and crawl spaces are common in Falmouth homes, but they can also be hotspots for excess humidity, condensation, and mold growth. When moisture levels rise, concrete can weaken, pests can find their way in, and over time, the foundation itself may begin to deteriorate. Preventing these issues starts with consistent moisture control to keep your foundation strong and stable.

To maintain a dry and stable foundation:

Use a dehumidifier in basements, especially in the summer when humidity levels rise.
Check for leaks or standing water regularly, addressing any plumbing issues promptly.
Install a vapor barrier in crawl spaces to reduce moisture absorption from the ground.
Ensure proper ventilation to prevent excess humidity buildup.

By keeping humidity levels in check, homeowners can prevent structural damage, improve indoor air quality, and extend the lifespan of their foundation—all while maintaining a healthier, more comfortable home.

4. Avoid Planting Too Close to the Foundation

Tree Roots and Shrubs Can Cause Damage

A well-designed landscape enhances curb appeal, but poorly placed trees and shrubs can pose serious risks to your home’s foundation. Large tree roots extend deep into the soil, absorbing moisture unevenly and causing the ground to shift, which can put pressure on the foundation. Meanwhile, dense shrubs planted too close to the home can trap moisture, leading to damp conditions that accelerate deterioration.

To keep your foundation safe while still enjoying the benefits of a beautifully landscaped yard:

Keep trees at least 15 feet away from the foundation, especially species with aggressive root systems.
Choose foundation-friendly shrubs and keep them pruned to allow airflow around the base of the home.
Remove dead or decaying trees that could impact the soil stability around the foundation.

With thoughtful landscaping, you can maintain a healthy yard that enhances your home’s appearance without compromising its foundation.

5. Be Mindful of Soil Movement

Expanding and Contracting Soil Can Cause Shifting

The soil beneath your home plays a critical role in foundation stability, but it’s constantly shifting due to moisture levels, temperature changes, and coastal conditions. In areas like Falmouth, where soil composition varies, expanding and contracting earth can lead to foundation settlement and cracks if not properly managed.

To keep the ground around your home stable:

Avoid excessive watering near the foundation. Overwatering can soften the soil, leading to foundation movement.
Use mulch or gravel to regulate moisture levels. This prevents extreme drying or excessive expansion of soil.
Fill in gaps or sinkholes promptly to prevent uneven pressure on the foundation.

By keeping an eye on soil conditions and making small adjustments, homeowners can protect their foundation from unnecessary stress and maintain long-term stability.

6. Schedule Professional Inspections

Early Detection Prevents Major Repairs

Even with regular upkeep, some foundation problems aren’t visible until they become serious—and expensive. Scheduling a professional inspection allows experts to assess structural integrity, moisture levels, and potential problem areas, helping homeowners catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Here’s when to schedule a professional inspection:

Every few years as part of routine home maintenance.
Before buying or selling a home, to ensure there are no hidden foundation issues.
After extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, heavy flooding, or severe winters, to check for damage.

A proactive inspection can help homeowners address minor concerns early, avoid expensive repairs, and protect the long-term value of their property.

Learn More with Kerrie Marzot

Foundation issues are one of the most expensive and complicated repairs a homeowner can face, but with regular maintenance, many of these problems can be avoided.

If you're considering buying or selling a home in Falmouth, working with an expert real estate professional can help you navigate foundation concerns with confidence. Kerrie Marzot has extensive experience in the local market and can guide you through every aspect of homeownership, from maintenance tips to property value insights. Contact her today to discuss your real estate goals and ensure your investment is protected for the future.