foundations, walks, drives
Concrete by its very nature develops shrinkage cracks over time.
Even reinforced concrete floors, aprons, patios, steps, walks, driveways and porch slabs may develop hairline cracks with age.
This condition is normal and can be expected despite all precautions taken during installation.
Cracks in concrete can be repaired. Simply choose an appropriate caulk or Portland cement bond material that will adhere to concrete and re-grout or seal obvious cracks.
Another frequent problem is pitting or flaking of concrete driveways and garage floors caused by melting snow mixed with salt from cars.
When possible, avoid parking salty, wet cars on driveways and concrete surfaces.
Never use salt-based ice removers and seal concrete regularly.
Snow removal should also be done with care to prevent damage to walks.
On concrete, asphalt or brick walks and driveways, use "kitty litter" during winter conditions to avoid permanent damage to top surfaces.
Seal-coating of your concrete driveway on a yearly basis will extend the life of the driveway.
Other
Frequently check landscapes and walls and fill for soil erosion and depressions.
Check driveway and walks for cracks and soil erosion. Fill and mend as needed.
Basement home drain tile systems and sump pumps generally provide the only reliable system to insure a dry basement. An adequate gutter system with properly drained downspouts, along with a well-maintained surface drainage system are also normally necessary to avoid basement water problems. The surface water must always have positive drainage from the entire foundation. Certain soil conditions or changes in subsurface water table levels may cause changes in the water content of soils around foundations over time.