Downspout drainage pipes do not have to be buried deeply. Exterior drain pipes should also be installed in undisturbed soil about 6 feet away from the foundation. Lay drain pipes in beds of gravel for best results.
A French drain system helps water around the house flow away from the foundation. French drain designs simply allow the water to flow where it wants to flow - the path of least resistance. These French drains aid in exterior drainage and save your house from basement water seepage.
A French drain must be installed so the pipe slopes level or downhill. Here is a simple diagram for installing French drain systems. This diagram is a view of a linear French drain system viewed from the ground.
Drain tile should be installed on shallow foundations. Drain tile installation will be used to add water to the area to stabilize the soil. This will minimize soil movement and ultimately minimize cracks in the foundation.
Here is an e-mail I received from a reader who wondered about termites being present because of mushrooms in the yard. Termites do not produce mushrooms in your yard, so don't believe a neighbors' misinformation.
New baiting systems actually kill termites and termite colonies. These systems are also called total colony elimination systems. There are four major brands of these termite pest control products. The DIY product isn't always trusted to work. Consult professional pest control for help.
Termite pest control is a huge industry. A demand for termite control products has lead to new improvements in termite baiting systems and total colony elimination systems. Here are some of the advancements in termite pest control.
Repairing termite damage is necessary, but only when termites are eliminated. Some repairs are simple, while others can be difficult. Structural termite damage is a difficult repair because wires and utilities often pass through the joists. Hire a professional if you have doubts.
Borates can be applied to anything wood or containing wood to repel insects. The chemicals can be sprayed or painted or the lumber can be dipped, flooded or immersed in the borate solution. Borate chemicals can harm pets and plants, so be sure to avoid them.
Borate chemicals are sprayed onto new wood to ward off termites and other insects. It is an easy job and borate products are not new - Europeans, and folks down under in New Zealand and Australia have been using borates with great success for nearly 50 years. Back in 1990, the Australians treated 12 million cubic feet of lumber with borates!
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