HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR HOME FOUNDATION
Foundation repair issues are sometimes expensive. You should make sure to maintain the foundation of your home to avoid this costly expense. Here is how you can prevent various problems such as foundation cracks, and upheaval.
- Moist ground
Foundation cracks usually occur during a drought. Clay-rich soil dries out and then contracts. the soils do not contract in the same direction. The foundation, being heavy, gets stuck in the middle. There will then be a crack because of the uneven ground. The best way to prevent this is to keep the ground beneath your home moist enough.
- Drainage
You need to maintain the ground moist but you do not want it to be too wet. Control any drainage you have around your home. Water should flow away from your home. Watch out for standing water or drought in your yard.
- Tree roots
Trees make any yard beautiful. You have to put into consideration that the roots of these trees are almost as big as the branches. And they go very deep. Roots do not usually go straight down. You should observe the roots so they do not get too close to the foundation.
- Plants
Not only trees have roots. Any sturdy plant like a bush or a shrub should not be near the foundation. Make sure you plan them at least a couple of feet away from the edge of the foundation. This will keep the roots and watering go where they should go.
- Proper slope
Your house should not be at the bottom of your yard. Make sure that your house is at the top of a gentle slope. The entire yard should act as a drainage channel. French drains and subtle yard drainage can help to avoid any sagginess.
- Thermostat and vacations
Temperature has a big effect on the foundation. Especially temperature inside the house. Do not turn off the thermostat when you go on a vacation. It will allow extreme changes in the temperature. What you should do is leave it on a low setting. It will ensure that the house will not go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cracks and bowing
You should check the foundation and your walls from time to time. Watch out for signs of cracking. Contact a professional to help you as soon as you see any sign. This is your best chance to reverse the damage. It will also prevent further displacement of the foundation. Fix issues as soon as you can. Major issues are more difficult to fix and will cost you more. It can also endanger your safety.
- Flower beds
Flower beds that stick out from the yard are lovely. But it is important to make sure that they are not taller than the foundation. Also, ensure that it is not sloped towards the house.
- Consultation
Get a professional to inspect the foundation as soon as you see anything suspicious. You can also schedule an inspection once in a while to ensure everything is okay.
A cracked foundation is easier to fix before it gets any bigger. Maintenance is often less expensive. Make sure you take the necessary preventive measures. Jasper county houses for sale have a solid foundation that you can be confident of. If you see any signs of damage or you want a professional opinion, do not hesitate.
The Best Pumpkin Seeds Recipe Ever!
Pumpkin is a vegetable and is full of nourishment. Most people are unaware of the health benefits of pumpkin seeds and usually throw them away. Pumpkin seeds are one of the most nutritious and delicious snacks you can give your kids. These seeds are not nut products and are usually non-allergenic foods.
Pumpkin seeds are also called pepitas. In general, pepitas and pumpkin seeds are the same thing. But pepitas have no shell, they are only found in selected pumpkin varieties. Try some of this great pumpkin seeds recipe for snacks.
The following recipe requires no time. No grease, no sugar stuff, no special kitchen equipment! All you need is some fresh or dried pumpkin seeds, pickle juice in a jar, pizza baking sheet, and oven.
Here we go!
- Rinse the fresh seeds thoroughly in cold water and take the pulp and strings, as you take them out of the pumpkins and put them on paper towels or clean kitchen towels to dry.
- Then, you have to soak them in a pickle juice jar for 3 or more nights.
- The next step is to drain the seeds and place them on a single layer on pizza baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to high temperature for about 400 F. Roast the seeds on the same pizza baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, stir frequently until you find the pale golden color and amazingly crunchy texture of the seeds.
- Let the seeds cool and then store them in an airtight container.
- It is the time to serve and then get to munching.
Enjoy this healthy non-toxic recipe of your favorite pumpkin seeds!
Adding this delicious pumpkin seeds to your diet can reduce cholesterol and boost the immune system. They are the best natural organic remedy for body detox cleansing.