Keep Your Foundation Happy (and Your Shrubs at a Safe Distance) Your home’s foundation is like the unsung hero of your property. It quietly holds everything up, never complains, and doesn’t get the glory the kitchen or bathroom remodel gets. But if you mistreat it? Let’s just say things can get… cracky. One of the biggest threats to your foundation’s happiness is too much “up close and personal” attention from ivy, mulch, and shrubbery. Sure, plants look great, but when they cozy up to your foundation, it’s like inviting trouble to move in—rent-free. Ivy may look romantic climbing up walls, but it’s basically nature’s pry bar. It wedges itself into cracks, holds moisture against your home, and encourages bugs to throw wild parties behind the scenes. Mulch is great in the garden, but piled high against your foundation, it traps moisture right where you don’t want it. Over time, this can lead to rot, mold, and that sinking feeling—literally. Shrubbery adds curb appeal, but those roots aren’t just hanging out for fun. They can shift soil, mess with drainage, and give your foundation a not-so-gentle nudge. The Fix? Give Your Foundation Breathing Room • Keep at least 12–18 inches of space between your foundation and plants. • Use mulch sparingly and never pile it higher than 2–3 inches. • Choose plants with shallow root systems if they’re near your home. • Check grading to ensure water flows away from your foundation, not toward it. A little distance now means fewer headaches later. Your foundation may never send you a thank-you card, but it will keep standing strong—and that’s worth more than all the roses in the world.

Your home’s exterior is more than curb appeal—it’s the first line of defense against the elements. Sun, wind, rain, and seasonal temperature changes can take a toll on siding, roofing, paint, and other exterior features. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property looking its best but also helps you avoid expensive repairs in the future. 1. Extend the Life of Your Materials Siding, roofing, and paint all have a lifespan. Dirt buildup, mold, and moisture can shorten it. Simple steps—like pressure washing siding, cleaning gutters, and checking caulking—can add years to your home’s exterior materials and delay costly replacements. 2. Prevent Costly Water Damage Water is one of the most destructive forces to a home. Clogged gutters, damaged flashing, or missing shingles can allow leaks to form. Over time, water intrusion can cause rot, mold growth, and structural damage. Routine inspections after storms and seasonal changes can catch small issues before they become major repairs. 3. Boost Energy Efficiency Gaps in siding, worn weatherstripping, or deteriorating windows can lead to drafts and higher energy bills. By maintaining these components, you improve insulation, reduce heating and cooling costs, and keep your home comfortable year-round. 4. Preserve Your Home’s Value A well-maintained exterior keeps your property value strong. Whether you plan to sell soon or years down the road, buyers are drawn to homes that look cared for and require minimal immediate work. Regular upkeep can make the difference in getting top dollar. 5. Maintain Safety Loose railings, cracked walkways, and damaged steps can pose hazards to family and visitors. Addressing these issues promptly reduces risk and liability. Partner with Professionals While many upkeep tasks can be handled by homeowners, others require expert attention. At Rodas Construction, we provide inspections, repairs, and upgrades to help protect your investment. Our experienced team can identify problems early and offer solutions that fit your budget and goals. ________________________________________ Bottom line: Exterior maintenance is not an expense—it’s an investment in your home’s longevity, efficiency, and value. Make it part of your seasonal routine, and you’ll protect one of your most important assets for years to come.

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