Comprehensive Spring Home Maintenance Guide: From Foundation to Roof

Now that Spring has arrived in Edmonton & Vancouver, it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning. We put together this list of exterior and interior inspections and fixes you can do before a problem gets out of hand.

Exterior Inspection

Eaves Troughs

You should clean you eaves troughs to allow for proper drainage and inspects the walls for any signs of water staining that may have been caused by the eaves overflowing. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris. Improper drainage can lead to water getting into your basement or crawlspace.

Roof

A visual inspection of your roof should be done to identify any damaged shingles or roofing materials as well as any areas that pests can use to gain access to your homes attic.

Siding/Cladding

There are several different types of siding that your home may have. Regardless of the type, there are some general things that you should watch for in order to maintain the protective envelope of your home.

1. Check for loose or missing sections. Most siding is meant to withstand the elements, but the walls behind your siding are not. Have any loose or missing sections fixed immediately.
2. Power washing your homes siding can serve two purposes; the first is to get rid of any insects that may be in the seams so they don’t build nests or cause any damage to your home; and the second is to clean any build up of dust.

Windows

Monitoring the state of the caulking and weather proofing around your windows can prevent air infiltration and any other elements that may lead to heat loss or even mold. Simply adding weather stripping and replacing the caulking can go a long way.

Foundation

Inspect concrete wall for signs of cracks or movement. The sooner you identify and deficiencies in your foundation, the less likely you are to experience any unnecessary damage loss of structural integrity or water damage inside your home. Always have a qualified professional assess the scope of work that needs to be done in order to determine the best foundation repair solutions.

Sump System

Maintaining your homes sump system will ensure that it provides continued protection to your basement while the ground around your home becomes saturated.

1. Abarent recommends that you manually activate your pump at least once per month in order to make sure that it is fully functional and hasn’t burned out become clogged.
2. Keep track of the age of your pump and replace it every 2 years or as per manufacturers specifications.
3. Reconnect your discharge hose (which should have been disconnected over the winter).

Interior Inspection

Furnace

1. Depending on the kind of furnace filters you use, either clean or replace your filters on a regular basis. This means at least every 90 days, and more often if you have pets or allergies.
2. Check your heating ducts for dust and animal hair, and remove large amounts. If your ducts haven’t been professionally cleaned for a while, book a cleaning with a professional service.

Weather Stripping and Caulking

Inspect the caulking on bathtubs, showers, sinks, and back splashes twice a year, and repair as needed. Check and repair weather stripping around exterior doors, windows and vents to the outside.

Appliances

1. Vacuum fridge and icemaker condenser coils, as well as the screen of your oven’s range hood. Your appliances’ manufacturer provides instructions on inspection and maintenance. Check your owner’s manuals from the time of purchase, or the company’s website.
2. Replace old appliances as necessary with energy-efficient models. This can help you save money in the long run.

Essential Spring Lawn Care and Landscaping Tips

Start your spring lawn care by raking away dead grass and debris. Aerate the lawn to improve soil drainage and oxygen flow. Apply a slow-release fertilizer to nourish your grass. Overseed bare patches to promote a lush, full lawn. Trim shrubs and trees, removing any dead or damaged branches. Consider landscaping to improve drainage around your home’s foundation, which can prevent water-related basement issues.

Comprehensive Gutter Maintenance Checklist

Clean gutters thoroughly, removing leaves, twigs, and debris. Check for loose or damaged gutter sections and tighten or replace as needed. Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from the foundation. Install gutter guards to prevent future clogs. Test the gutter system by running water through it. Proper gutter maintenance can prevent issues with your weeping tile system, which is crucial for foundation health.

Spring HVAC System Tune-Up and Maintenance

Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and tune-up. Clean or replace air filters monthly during high-use seasons. Clear debris from around outdoor AC units. Check and clean AC drain lines to prevent clogs. Inspect ductwork for leaks or damage. Proper HVAC maintenance can prevent excess moisture, which may lead to basement wall cracks or other structural issues.

Comprehensive Plumbing System Spring Check

Inspect visible pipes for signs of leaks or corrosion. Check water pressure and address any low-pressure issues. Clean aerators on faucets to improve water flow. Test sump pumps to ensure proper operation. Inspect water heater for leaks and flush it to remove sediment. Regular plumbing maintenance can prevent water damage and protect your home’s foundation from moisture-related problems.

Spring Pest Prevention and Control Measures

Seal entry points around windows, doors, and utility lines. Trim tree branches and shrubs away from the house. Remove standing water sources to prevent mosquito breeding. Use weather-resistant sealants to close gaps in exterior walls. Consider professional pest inspection for comprehensive protection. Preventing pest infestations can help identify early signs of foundation problems, as pests often enter through foundation cracks.

Essential Deck and Patio Spring Maintenance

Inspect deck boards for rot, splinters, or loose nails. Clean the deck surface with a appropriate cleaner. Apply a fresh coat of sealant or stain for protection. Check railings and stairs for stability. Inspect patio pavers for shifting or settling. Well-maintained outdoor spaces can significantly impact your home’s resale value, especially when combined with a solid foundation.

Spring Cleaning for Improved Indoor Air Quality

Deep clean carpets and upholstery to remove allergens. Dust and clean ceiling fans and light fixtures. Replace HVAC filters with high-efficiency models. Clean window screens and tracks thoroughly. Consider using an air purifier in high-traffic areas. Improving indoor air quality can help identify and prevent basement seepage issues, which often manifest as musty odors or excess humidity.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades for Spring

Install a programmable or smart thermostat for better climate control. Replace old windows with energy-efficient models to reduce drafts. Add or upgrade attic insulation to improve temperature regulation. Switch to LED bulbs for better energy efficiency. Consider a home energy audit for comprehensive improvement suggestions. Energy-efficient upgrades can complement basement improvements, creating a more comfortable and valuable living space.

Signs of Foundation Problems

Signs of Foundation Problems

There are some obvious signs of foundation problems that you can see inside your home like structural foundation cracks or efflorescence and water staining along the foundation walls, but if you have a waterproofed basement with foundation moisture barriers then looking for those signs isn’t always an option.

Here are some other ways to identify foundation settlement and structural issues:

Exterior Home Inspection for Foundation Issues

Remember that you are not just looking for foundation wall cracks, but any bulges, bowed basement walls, or leaning. You also want to pay attention to the foundation drainage system and grading of your yard, is it shedding away from your home or towards it? Depending on what you find you may be able to mitigate the hydrostatic pressure by re-grading or repairing your eaves trough.

Interior Signs of Foundation Problems

Inspect your drywall for cracks or shifting in load-bearing walls, and check your doors to see if they catch or jam as you open and close them. This could indicate that your foundation is settling and there could be a structural issue that needs to be addressed with foundation repair methods.

Whether you’re currently experiencing foundation problems, buying a home, or just want to put your mind at ease, getting a professional foundation inspection report is always a good way to start! Learn more about our comprehensive foundation inspection services and maintenance tips.

Do Foundation Issues Affect The Resale Value of Your Home?

Something that we find a lot of clients are worried about when considering options to fix their foundation is whether it is going to affect the resale value of their home. This is a reasonable fear and usually stems from the assumption that if they have any repairs done it will be like a red flag to any potential buyers who may then try to use it to negotiate a lower offer.

In any event, a homeowner must disclose any existing issues and repairs that were completed as a result. However, if the repairs were done properly and by a reputable contractor then in most cases they will have no affect on the value of the home at all. In fact, by repairing the existing issues prior to the sale of your home you are preventing an opportunity for the potential buyer to use the issues as a negotiation tactic and in turn preserving your homes value.

There are a few steps that you can take in order to ensure you are doing everything you can to protect your homes value, most of which is carefully selecting the right contractor for the work.

For more information on properly selecting a contractor, check out our helpful guide with questions you should be asking before signing on the dotted line. We also have a printable checklist to keep handy.

We offer foundation inspections and repairs in Alberta and BC. We have offices in Edmonton and Vancouver.

Getting More Use Out of Your Basement

Far too often the basement becomes a storage unit or an under-utilized dead zone. This may have happened because it was left unfinished or the windows are too small and don’t provide enough natural light. It could also be that the layout isn’t suitable for your needs.
The options for turning your basement into a space that you are excited to use don’t have to be daunting.

Lighting

One of the biggest factors that contribute to a basement feeling like a dungeon is the lack of natural light. If you plan on renovating, consider having the windows enlarged and possibly adding more. Building code now requires having more than one way out of a basement. So making the windows large enough to act as means of egress will also help you maximize the amount of natural light entering the space.

Adding some recessed lighting in the ceiling and some wall-mounted lighting can also help make the space more inviting and allow it to accommodate a variety of uses.

Flooring

Finding an option that suites your style and is water-resistant is an absolute must when choosing flooring for your basement. Using the existing exposed concrete slab and adding the proper paint, stain, or epoxy to it can allow for a high quality look without worrying about water damage in the event of a flood. For areas at risk of flooding, consider basement waterproofing.

Many older homes in Southern Alberta were built without the use of a vapor barrier underneath the floor slab, so installing a subfloor to allow the concrete to breath will go a long way in preventing any future problems as a result. This option opens up the possibility of using vinyl tile or laminate hardwood on top of the sub floor.

No matter what option you use, it is important that it is installed by a qualified professional to reduce the possibility of damage from moisture and mold.

Space Design

When you’re deciding what to add or change you want it to be an extension of the rest of your home. Whether your basement is finished or unfinished, bringing in an experienced draftsperson can enable you to explore a variety of space designs to get the most out of what you have or do a complete makeover. Even something as scary as cutting bigger window openings in your foundation can be done with very little stress.

The key is in the planning! When you make any changes to your home you need to be sure that whomever you hire is designing to current building code standards and addresses all of the aspects that the design may have on the functionality of the space.

Have more questions? Contact us for help.

Roles, Importance, and Benefits of Structural Engineers in Construction and Renovation

Having a structural engineer and professional construction specialist involved in the repair process for your project can provide essential structural analysis and load calculations for your property. Your home foundation requires comprehensive site investigations and geotechnical reports to assess its structural integrity. Most homes were originally designed and constructed according to standardized building codes and safety standards. An engineer brings specialized material testing expertise and engineering consultations to every project so that we can evaluate where those standardized approaches need customization. Abarent is equipped with an APEGA Permit to Practice and an in-house engineer who performs thorough structural integrity tests to develop a customized solution for the underlying cause of the fracturing or settlement that is occurring.

Unfortunately in this industry we frequently encounter projects where competitors have attempted to repair a foundation using inadequate foundation design and construction methods that lack proper engineering oversight. It is essential to employ a qualified professional with extensive experience and proper credentials to ensure each project meets construction standards and protects your investment.

Basement Condition Before Professional Repairs

Basement Transformation After Engineering-Guided Repairs

Professional Qualifications and Requirements for Structural Engineers

An engineer is a qualified professional who specializes in structural analysis, design planning, and construction oversight for both existing and new structures. To become an engineer in Canada, professionals must meet and maintain these essential qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at an accredited post secondary institution (4 – 5 years).
• Work as an Engineer In Training (EIT) for a minimum of 2 years under someone with a Professional Engineer (P. Eng) designation.
• Successfully complete a professional practice exam in their respective province.

Once an engineer fulfills these qualifications, they receive their P. Eng designation and must adhere to their provincial code of ethics.

Essential Professional Credentials and Verification Methods

These are crucial elements to verify when confirming an engineer’s qualifications:

The APEGA Permit To Practice Requirements

“Any company that engages in the practice of engineering or geoscience in Alberta as part of its business must have a Permit to Practice with APEGA.” Company Permit To Practice. (n.d.). Retrieved February 24, 2017

Professional Engineering Stamp Requirements and Usage

The engineering stamp is officially issued by the provincial association and includes the engineering association’s seal.

An engineer applies their stamp when authenticating structural calculations and construction documents. Each stamp must include the engineer’s signature and authentication date.

Comprehensive Engineering Documentation and Reports

After conducting a thorough inspection of the foundation using specialized assessment tools, engineers can identify underlying structural issues through detailed site investigations and soil testing. They provide comprehensive remediation plans and a recommended course of action for foundation repairs supported by structural calculations. These detailed reports serve as essential construction specifications for contractors during the repair process and may be required for property transactions.

While contractors might offer inspection reports, they may recommend repairs that prioritize profit over necessity. Having a licensed engineer with professional liability insurance complete the assessment ensures that the recommended remediation plan focuses solely on essential structural modifications.

Professional Accountability and Engineering Ethics

Licensed engineers are bound by strict professional standards and their provincial governing body’s regulations. They maintain legal responsibility to prevent harm or loss resulting from their work. Having an engineer perform structural analysis and create detailed repair plans provides authoritative documentation that eliminates the need for additional contractor opinions.

Learn more about our comprehensive structural engineering services and quality control inspections and let us assist you with your project needs.

The Role of Structural Engineers in Foundation Assessment

Structural engineers employ advanced foundation assessment tools and conduct thorough site investigations. These professionals utilize specialized equipment like crack gauges and laser levels for precise measurements. Structural engineers detect subtle foundation settlement indicators through detailed monitoring. They analyze soil composition and evaluate its impact on structural integrity. Understanding early warning signs of foundation deterioration enables timely intervention and cost-effective repairs.

Structural Engineers and Building Code Compliance

Structural engineers ensure all construction meets current building codes and safety standards. They maintain expertise in evolving regulations and construction specifications. These professionals interpret complex technical requirements for property owners. Structural engineers prepare comprehensive project documentation. Consulting qualified structural engineering professionals prevents code violations and ensures proper permit approval.

The Impact of Structural Engineers on Insurance Claims

Structural engineers provide expert assessments for insurance purposes. Their detailed reports carry significant weight with insurance providers. These professionals conduct thorough damage evaluations and cost analyses. Structural engineers guide homeowners through claim documentation. Professional structural engineering assessments significantly impact property value and insurance coverage.

Structural Engineers in Renovation Projects

Structural engineers perform essential load calculations for safe renovations. They evaluate load-bearing structures before modification. These professionals design comprehensive support systems for open concepts. Structural engineers ensure additions maintain building integrity. Professional engineering oversight for basement modifications prevents structural issues.

The Role of Structural Engineers in Disaster Preparedness

Structural engineers assess building resilience against natural disasters. They recommend specific reinforcement measures for existing structures. These professionals design buildings to resist environmental stresses. Structural engineers develop safety protocols based on thorough analysis. Engineering-guided foundation repairs enhance structural disaster resistance.

Structural Engineers and Sustainable Construction

Structural engineers integrate sustainable materials into design specifications. They optimize structural efficiency for energy conservation. These professionals evaluate environmental impacts of construction methods. Structural engineers balance sustainability with building integrity. Understanding various engineering-approved repair techniques helps select environmentally conscious solutions.

The Importance of Structural Engineers in Historic Preservation

Structural engineers assess historic building integrity using specialized methods. They create preservation strategies maintaining architectural authenticity. These professionals employ non-invasive testing for heritage structures. Structural engineers integrate modern safety requirements with historical preservation. Professional underpinning methods preserve historic integrity while ensuring stability.

Structural Engineers and Modern Technology Integration

Structural engineers utilize advanced modeling software for precise analysis. They collaborate with construction teams through digital platforms. These professionals identify potential issues before construction begins. Structural engineers manage building lifecycles through technology. Advanced engineering drafting services provide accurate solutions for complex projects.

How To Repair Foundation Leaks & Cracks

Beginning Foundation Crack Repair and Foundation Leak Repair – How do we start?

Firstly, there are a multitude of methods used in the industry for repairing foundation leaks and cracks.  Not all of them are appropriate for every situation, however. As a customer,  it is important that you understand what your choices are, and the real differences between all of them.  At Abarent, we have created a document that goes over a comparison of the different ways you can go about repairing foundation leaks, helping you assess which method is the right one for your situation.

Costs can vary dramatically

Obviously costs can vary dramatically between methods.  How you choose to begin your foundation leak repair or your foundation crack repair, and which contractor you hire should be an informed decision.  Make sure you are informed and have an idea of what you might need. Ask questions to your contractor so that your leaky basement issue is resolved once and for all.

Click below for Abarent’s guide to repair foundation leaks:

What-are-the-Differences-in-Methods

What Should I Do If I Have a Leaking Basement?

Basement Leak Repair

A leaking basement wall or a leaking basement in general can occur from a multitude of sources. Read on for Abarent’s tips on how to troubleshoot the problem, and how to get help.

In order to begin diagnosing the problem, have a look at where the water appears to be coming from in your leaking basement.  If the drywall is wet and damaged, have it cut out of the way and removed.  Exposing areas can sometimes be very helpful in determining the true origin of your basement water seepage issue.

Here are some typical causes:

Basement Plumbing leaking: Something as simple as a leaking drain line or water supply line can lead to a puddle on the floor.

Basement Window leaking: Wind blown rain can often push moisture in around the edges or track of a window.

Window well not draining: Debris may have plugged up a window well drain or there may be no drain existing.  Is there a water line on your window?

Basement foundation wall crack: This may be something that you don’t know the answer to. At Abarent, our trained eyes can often spot symptoms that indicate the presence of foundation cracks that are contributing to your leaky basement.  If drywall is wet however, cut it out of the way, so we can all see what is behind it.

Need for Weeping tile repair: Many houses built prior to 1958 do not have weeping tile and some houses that have existing weeping tile may have issues with that weeping tile.  Our experienced estimators will go through a checklist of symptoms to try and determine what your issue is and provide you with a solution.  It is much like being a detective of sorts.

Sump pump back up or Backwater valve problems: If your house has existing weeping tile, it needs to drain somewhere.  Your house would either have a sump pit connection or weeping tile may be connected to the sewer through a Backflow valve.  A pump failure or pipe blockage may lead to foundation seepage and a wet basement.

If you have a leaky basement, contact us asap. We respond very quickly.

To save parties time, there are several things you can do to help us diagnosis your foundation problem.

• Try and locate the origin of the basement leak
• Cut wet drywall out and remove soggy insulation
• Take note of when you notice the basement seepage issue and current weather (raining or not)
• Try and be informed on the age of your house and when it was built

Be sure to click on our handy check list to help you when interviewing contractors for your foundation repair project.  We look forward to helping you.

Consumer Beware – Consumer Tips for Hiring a Foundation Repair Contractor

Every year we are reminded on how important it is to practice “Due Diligence” when hiring a contractor.  I often hear the “horror” stories from clients who have made mistakes they regret.  Does any of this sound familiar?

• “I hired them because the company I was referred to by a neighbour was so busy they couldn’t see me right now.  These guys could see me today”
• “The guys I should have hired were booked for 4 weeks”
• “They were cheaper”

All too often during our busy season, I’ll see ads pop up online (Kijiji etc).  While a lot of reputable people use this medium, there are also all too many who use it’s anonymity  to their benefit and take advantage of consumers who want someone quick, cheap and easy.  Here are a couple of examples of what we were called in to fix after a client had hired someone else who was quicker and cheaper.  In both cases the client was now paying twice for the same repair.

Case # 1:  Client had called us originally and was told that due to call volume it would be 4 weeks before we could repair their basement.  They chose to look online for someone else.  They found someone on Kijiji who could come out right away.  This fellow performed his repair by gluing on a garbage bag, charged the client $1000 then left.  When the repair failed, the client tried getting ahold of the “contractor” with no luck.  After some checking, it turned out that the “contractor” they hired had no Business License, no insurance and no office.  He was just trying to pick up some quick cash.  They called us and we scheduled them for a proper repair.  Our foundation repairs are completely guaranteed in writing.

 

Case #2:  Once again the “quick, easy and cheap right now contractor” swooped in and charged a client for an incorrectly performed repair.  We were called in and provided a detailed written estimate, scheduled a proper repair and performed the work with success.

CHECK OUT YOUR CONTRACTOR:   There are many tools in our website to help you with this process.  Please feel free to use our consumer tips when comparing contractors for any service at your home.

“Our Basement & Foundation Repair Guides”