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Do your feet tend to get cold while staying at home during winter? Then, your crawlspace or foundation could be the main culprit behind the problem. Even though the winters in Houston are usually warmer than in other areas of the country, the outside temperature often gets cooler than some of us would like. Since the cold air that gets under your house can make your floors cold, the best way to address cold floors and feet is to protect your crawl space and foundation against the cold weather. This can be done by winterizing the space underneath your house. Besides keeping your home warmer, proper crawl space winterization will also reduce your energy costs and prevent specific problems, such aswater damage due to burst pipes.
Luckily, getting your Houston home winter-ready doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Here is a crawl space and foundation winterization checklist to help you with your home improvement project.
☑Fix foundation cracks
If there are any cracks in your foundation, the cold air from outside can get inside your subfloor. Not only will this make the floor on top cold, but it can also expose the entire structure to condensation. Condensation within a floor system can damage different components, including joists, beams, and even the floor covering on top. In addition, a damp subfloor and crawl space can lead to foundation damage and create a favorable breeding ground for pests and mold growth.By repairing foundation cracks, you can keep out both the cold air and moisture and also prevent a series of foundation problems that can worsen over time and become costly to fix. Currently, epoxy injection is the most commonDIY repair method for foundation cracks.
However, be sure to have your foundation inspected by professionals before making any repairs. This is important especially because some cracks cannot be repaired with DIY kits. It is also worth noting that DYI injection repairs are temporary solutions, as most of them fail within a relatively short period of time, particularly due to soil expansion and contraction—which cannot be completely controlled in areas with expansive clay soil, like Houston.
☑Insulate the rim joists
Located around the perimeter of crawl spaces, rim joists are a major source of air leakage, heat loss, and condensation. By simplyinsulating your rim joists with either rigid foam boards or spray foam, you can keep your house warmer, make it more energy-efficient in both winter and summer and prevent damage due to condensation.
☑Insulate any exposed pipes
Although very cold weather is extremely rare in Houston, the temperature can still drop below freezing occasionally. Freezing temperatures can cause any exposed pipes in unheated areas, like the crawl space underneath your home, to burst. Besides leaving you without water and requiring repairs in the midst of winter,burst pipes can lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural problems that can be expensive to fix.
☑Encapsulate your crawl space
Encapsulating your crawl space is the most effective way to keep the area under your house clean, dry, and warmer during winter. Besides preventing cold air from getting underneath your home, crawl space encapsulation also keeps pests and moisture out, eliminating many of the problems that may occur both in cold and hot weather. In general, encapsulation involves sealing the space with vapor barriers and insulation.
☑ Keep your crawl space vents closed
If you have encapsulated your crawl space already and also had a few vents installed, make sure you keep them closed during the winter months. While vents can help improve ventilation and reduce humidity in your crawl space, they also let in the cold air from outside, which can make your floor cold. If there are also any exposed pipes under your home, keeping the vents open can increase the risk of them freezing and bursting. One way to avoid all these is to close your crawl space vents as soon as winter arrives and have adehumidifier installed to remove any excess moisture that could build up.
As you prepare your Houston home for winter, make sure you keep an eye out for signs of possible foundation problems. If you notice any issues, don’t wait!Schedule a free foundation inspection and estimate with our professionals today to get their unbiased advice on how to keep your foundation and home in sound condition for many years to come!
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Do I call a foundation repair company if my house is leaning?
If your house is leaning, it’s crucial to call a foundation repair company. A leaning structure often indicates serious foundation issues that require immediate assessment and repairs to ensure your home’s safety and stability.
Are foundation repairs covered by insurance?
Foundation repairs may or may not be covered by insurance, depending on your specific policy and the cause of the damage. It's essential to check your homeowner's insurance policy or consult your insurance provider for clarification.
Can a foundation always be fixed?
Foundations can often be repaired; however, the specific circumstances and extent of damage will determine the feasibility and cost of repairs. Consulting a professional is essential for a thorough assessment to explore viable solutions.
Do foundation cracks need repair?
Foundation cracks need repair to prevent further damage to your home. Ignoring them can lead to structural issues, water intrusion, and costly repairs down the line. Addressing cracks early ensures your foundation remains stable and safe.
Can foundation cracks be repaired?
Foundation cracks can be repaired effectively. Various methods, such as epoxy injections and piering, are used to restore structural integrity and prevent further damage. Timely repairs are essential to protect your home and maintain its value.
Are foundation repairs tax deductible?
Foundation repairs may be tax deductible if they are necessary for maintaining the property or if they improve the value of your home. It's advisable to consult a tax professional to understand your specific eligibility and requirements.
Does foundation repair decrease home value?
Foundation repair does not decrease home value; in fact, addressing foundation issues proactively can enhance property value and attract potential buyers by ensuring a stable and safe living environment.
Are foundation repairs expensive?
Foundation repairs can be costly, but the expense is often necessary to prevent further damage to your home. The total cost will depend on the severity of the issues and the methods required for repair.
Are contractors needed to repair foundation?
Contractors are essential for repairing a foundation, as they have the expertise and tools necessary to accurately assess the damage and implement appropriate solutions. Professional contractors ensure the repairs are effective and comply with local codes.
Are foundation repairs permanent?
Foundation repairs are designed to be permanent solutions. When properly executed by experienced professionals, these repairs effectively address underlying issues and help maintain the structural integrity of your home over time.
Can foundation repair cause more damage?
Foundation repair can potentially cause more damage if not performed correctly. However, when carried out by qualified professionals, the process is designed to stabilize and protect your home's structure, minimizing any risks of additional issues.
Can foundation be repaired?
The foundation can indeed be repaired. Experienced professionals can assess the issues and implement effective solutions to restore stability and prevent further damage, ensuring the safety and longevity of your home.
Are foundation repairs worth it?
The worth of foundation repairs is significant, as they prevent further structural damage, enhance property value, and ensure the safety of your home. Investing in repairs can save you money in the long run by addressing issues early on.
Are foundation repairs covered by home insurance?
Foundation repairs may be covered by home insurance, but this depends on the cause of the damage and your specific policy. It's essential to review your coverage details and consult with your insurance provider for clarity.
Are foundation repairs covered by homeowners insurance?
Foundation repairs may or may not be covered by homeowners insurance, depending on the cause of the damage. If the foundation issues arise from a covered peril, such as a natural disaster, they are likely to be included in your policy.
Do foundation repairs last?
Foundation repairs can last for many years when performed by professionals, provided that underlying issues are properly addressed and maintained. Regular inspections and maintenance can further ensure the longevity of your foundation repairs.
Does foundation repair increase home value?
Foundation repair can increase home value by addressing structural issues that may deter potential buyers. A stable foundation is essential for safety and market appeal, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
Do foundation repair companies fix leaks?
Foundation repair companies often address leaks as part of their services. They can identify the source of water intrusion and implement solutions to repair foundational issues, preventing further leaks and damage.
What signs indicate foundation issues?
Signs indicating foundation issues include cracks in walls or floors, doors and windows that stick, uneven or sloped floors, gaps around windows and doors, and water pooling near the foundation. Addressing these signs promptly can prevent further damage.
How long do foundation repairs take?
The duration of foundation repairs varies based on the severity of the issues and the methods used. Typically, repairs can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete.
Can DIY methods fix foundation problems?
DIY methods may provide temporary relief for minor foundation issues, but they often lack the effectiveness and durability of professional repairs. For significant problems, it’s best to consult experts to ensure long-lasting solutions.
What causes foundation cracks to develop?
Foundation cracks develop due to various factors, including soil movement, insufficient drainage, and extreme weather conditions. These elements can exert pressure on the foundation, leading to cracks that compromise the structural integrity of a home.
Are structural engineers involved in foundation repairs?
Structural engineers are indeed involved in foundation repairs, as they assess structural integrity, recommend appropriate solutions, and ensure compliance with safety standards during the repair process.
What is the cost range for foundation repairs?
The cost range for foundation repairs varies significantly based on factors such as the type and extent of damage, ranging from $2,000 to $7,000 on average. For specific estimates, it’s best to schedule an assessment.
How can I prevent future foundation issues?
Preventing future foundation issues involves maintaining proper drainage around your home, ensuring gutters are clean, and grading the soil to direct water away from the foundation. Regular inspections and addressing minor repairs promptly can also help avoid major problems.
What techniques are used in foundation lifting?
The techniques used in foundation lifting include slab jacking, piering, and foam injection. These methods effectively raise and stabilize the foundation by addressing the underlying soil issues and providing the necessary support.
Is financing available for foundation repairs?
Financing is available for foundation repairs. At Allied Foundation Repair, we offer various financing options to help homeowners manage the cost of essential foundation services.
What documents are needed for foundation repair estimates?
The documents needed for foundation repair estimates typically include the property deed, any previous inspection reports, photographs of visible issues, and structural plans if available. These help ensure an accurate assessment of the foundation's condition.
How often should foundation inspections occur?
Foundation inspections should occur at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice signs of foundation issues, such as cracks in walls or uneven floors. Regular assessments help prevent severe damage and costly repairs.
What warranties are offered on foundation repairs?
The warranties offered on foundation repairs typically include both a workmanship warranty and a material warranty, ensuring long-term protection for homeowners against defects or issues that may arise post-repair.
