For homeowners lucky enough to live in one of Ann Arbor’s historic neighborhoods, your home has a rare opportunity to experience the continuity between past and present. Many residences hold a unique blend of architectural detail, generational memory, and irreplaceable charm. But charm alone can’t keep the pipes from leaking or the electrical up to code—which is why Ann Arbor residents often seek out historic home renovation.
Historic home renovation in Ann Arbor represents a delicate balancing act. From the craftsman bungalows near Burns Park to the stately brick homes of Old West Side, homeowners want to preserve history while integrating the modern luxuries of functional kitchens, energy efficiency, and smart home systems.
Over our years in local construction, we’ve seen countless homeowners grapple with the question of how to maintain the soul of a historic home without allowing it to fall into disrepair. The answer is a thoughtful, professional approach to renovation. Here’s what you need to know.
Owning a historic home is both a privilege and a responsibility. The woodwork, the original windows, the slate roofs—these are no longer mere aesthetic choices, but longstanding testaments to the craftsmanship of another era. For all their beauty, however, older homes often fall short of today’s expectations in terms of functionality, safety, and efficiency. Historic home renovation gives you the chance to:
Bring infrastructure up to modern code without disrupting the architectural integrity of the original design
Improve energy efficiency and lower costs through upgraded insulation, HVAC systems, and window restoration
Reconfigure interior spaces for open layouts, natural light, and today’s lifestyle preferences
Preserve long-term value by ensuring the home is comfortable, safe, and appealing to future buyers
Create a personalized space that still honors the past while embracing what the modern era has to offer
Historic homes are worth the effort, but that effort requires expertise. You need a builder who understands how to blend old and new—someone who won’t suggest a shortcut like vinyl siding just because it’s easier.
Historic Home Renovation: 5 Ways to Renovate With Respect
1. Respect the Bones
Before drawing up plans, understand what makes your home historically significant. Is it the exterior facade? The trim work? The layout or materials? In many cases, features like windows, porches, and rooflines are tell-tale signs of a home’s historical value—and altering them may require approval from a local historic district commission.
Here’s a pro tip: Work with a design-build team that knows Ann Arbor’s local ordinances and can navigate approvals efficiently without compromising your vision. That’s how you get the best out of your project—both for your comfort and the home’s historical integrity.
2. Update Infrastructure Invisibly
While it may seem less exciting, one of the wisest ways to modernize and preserve a historic home into the future is to invest in what you don’t see but most certainly use: plumbing, electrical, insulation, and HVAC. These updates drastically improve comfort and safety without touching the home’s visible character. For example:
Replace outdated knob-and-tube wiring with modern systems, run discreetly through walls and floors.
Improve energy efficiency with spray foam or cellulose insulation—strategically placed so it won’t damage the original plaster.
Install zoned HVAC systems with small-duct or ductless mini-splits to minimize structural impact and maximize temperature regulation.
3. Choose Sympathetic Materials and Finishes
If your renovation includes new cabinetry, flooring, or fixtures, the key is to choose elements that feel true to the original design, even if they’re brand new. That might mean reclaimed wood floors, custom trim profiles that echo the originals, or hardware in period-appropriate finishes. When in doubt, ask your design team for ideas.
Want to add a modern kitchen? Great. Consider cabinetry styles, lighting, and materials that nod to the home’s era instead of competing with it.
4. Reimagine Layouts Without Erasing History
Most historic homes weren’t built for modern open-concept living. Even still, that doesn’t mean you can’t open walls or reconfigure space here and there—just do it with an eye for balance. When possible, preserve sightlines, reuse original doors and trim, and keep transitions intentional. For example, you might:
Combine a small kitchen and dining room to create a spacious gathering area
Turn an unused back stairwell into a walk-in pantry or powder room
Add French doors between rooms instead of removing walls entirely
There are a number of ways to go about this, sometimes you just have to think outside the box. With the right approach, you can improve flow while still honoring the architectural hierarchy of the original home.
5. Add Space Strategically
Whether it’s a new primary suite, sunroom, or mudroom, additions to historic homes should feel like natural extensions rather than afterthoughts. This doesn’t mean they have to match every detail exactly, but they should respect the scale, proportions, and materials of the existing home. Otherwise, you run the risk of disjointed, awkward room continuity.
A good rule of thumb: Let the original home remain the visual anchor. Additions should complement, not compete.
What Makes Ann Arbor Renovations Unique?
Ann Arbor is known for its deep love of history—and its equally strong appetite for innovation. That combination makes it the perfect place to live in a home that’s both timeless and up-to-date. Remember, however, that historic home renovation in Ann Arbor comes with a few unique factors to consider:
Historic district regulations: Areas like Old Fourth Ward, Germantown, and Old West Side may be subject to design review by the Historic District Commission.
Climate demands:Michigan winters require smart insulation, energy-efficient windows, and water-resilient materials. Proper temperature regulation preserves history!
Neighborhood context: History extends beyond your walls. Homes in historic districts often share a visual language, and your renovations should reflect that rhythm.
The MBK Approach: Craft Meets Context
At MBK Constructors, we take pride in helping homeowners navigate the complexity and creativity of historic renovations. Our design-build process means you work with a single team from concept to completion—saving time, reducing stress, and ensuring every detail is handled with care.
What sets us apart?
Contextual design: We tailor every decision to your home’s specific style, structure, and history.
Transparent collaboration: You’ll always know what’s happening and why—from material choices to permitting strategies.
Craftsmanship-first mentality: Our team of skilled builders and artisans understands the responsibility of working in legacy homes.
You don’t have to choose between comfort and character. With MBK, you get both—thoughtfully integrated, beautifully executed, every time.
Whether your goal is to update key systems, add square footage, or simply make your historic home more livable, MBK Constructors can offer the knowledge, care, and craftsmanship to make it possible.
Let’s modernize your home without losing its charm. Contact MBK to discuss our design-build process.
In the construction world, efficiency matters. Owners want projects delivered on time, within budget, and with as little stress as possible. That’s why the design-build approach has quickly become the preferred method for residential and commercial projects alike.
In fact, design-build now accounts for 47% of construction spending in the US, with that number expected to keep rising. Why? Because it works—saving time, reducing costs, and improving outcomes.
Why More Homeowners Are Choosing Design-Build
The design-build approach combines design and construction into one cohesive process, leading to several different benefits for homeowners. Let’s get into it.
Faster Delivery, Fewer Headaches
Time is money, and design-build delivers on both fronts. According to one source, design-build projects typically complete 33% faster and at a cost savings of up to 10% compared to traditional construction methods. With fewer handoffs, better communication between teams, and minimized delays, designs can be sent for permitting sooner—which means construction gets underway faster.
For project managers—and by extension, you—that means less time managing timelines, fewer schedule surprises, and faster access to a completed building.
Greater Cost Certainty
One of the biggest concerns in construction is the risk of going over budget. Design-build reduces this risk by fostering early collaboration between architects, builders, and owners, resulting in more accurate cost estimates, fewer changes, and fewer surprises.
This integrated approach consistently delivers greater cost certainty and lower cost overruns. When your builder is part of the design process, you get real-time insight into how design choices impact cost and feasibility.
One Team = One Contract and One Vision
With design-build, everyone is aligned from the start. This unity fosters better communication, faster problem-solving, and fewer change orders throughout the project. Owners report significantly higher satisfaction with design-build, with many describing their experience as “very good” or “excellent.”
That’s because with a single point of accountability, your team is working together—not in silos.
Project Types Where Design-Build Shines
Design-build isn’t just faster and more cost-effective; it’s also incredibly versatile. This integrated approach is ideal for a wide range of residential projects, particularly those that require close coordination between design and construction teams.
Whole Home Renovations
Whether you’re reimagining your layout, expanding your square footage, or modernizing outdated features, design-build provides the structure and flexibility to execute large-scale transformations smoothly and efficiently.
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling
Bathrooms and kitchens are two of the most complex rooms in any home, where function, style, and technical considerations all collide. Design-build helps ensure your vision is executed seamlessly, from custom cabinetry to plumbing and lighting details.
Structural Modifications
For homes that need foundational repairs, framing adjustments, or support reinforcements, design-build keeps engineering, design, and construction in sync, avoiding delays and costly errors.
Custom Additions and Builds
From ADUs to second stories, design-build is well-suited for custom construction projects that benefit from early collaboration and unified project management.
At MBK Constructors, we’ve refined our design-build approach to ensure efficiency, transparency, and high-quality results. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or renovating your entire home, our process keeps your goals (and your budget) front and center.
Here’s how it works:
First, you’ll meet with one of our project managers.
We select an architect or designer from our existing network of vetted professionals who are aligned with your needs and preferences.
We establish a preliminary budget with you based on the proposed scope of work.
We enter into a pre-construction service agreement.
We work with the designer to draft preliminary drawings and provide an estimate.
We make necessary adjustments to ensure we stay within your budget.
We finalize the design and construction plans, ensuring every detail meets your expectations.
We move forward with construction, with your approval.
We update you every step of the way, from securing permits to the final walkthrough.
We perform a final inspection and complete a punch list, adding any finishing touches to ensure your home is exactly as you envisioned.
In Michigan, the only thing predictable about the weather is that it will be unpredictable. From snowy winters to humid summers, with everything from windstorms to heavy rain in between, your outdoor living space takes a beating all year long. That’s why choosing the right materials for your deck or patio isn’t just a design decision—it’s a long-term investment in durability, safety, and low-maintenance living.
Whether you’re updating an existing space or planning a brand-new build, this guide breaks down the durable patio options for building a backyard that lasts.
The Challenges of Michigan’s Climate
Michigan homeowners face unique weather-related challenges, especially in Ann Arbor and the surrounding communities.
Decks and patios in this region must endure dramatic freeze-thaw cycles that can cause surfaces to crack or shift. Summer brings intense UV exposure and high humidity, which can fade materials and promote mold growth. Winters are long and icy, often resulting in heavy snow buildup and ice dams. And let’s not forget the wind-driven rain and storm debris that often accompany severe weather events in the spring and fall.
These conditions can take a serious toll on your outdoor space in areas like Saline, Ypsilanti, Dexter, and Pittsfield Township, where mature trees and fluctuating weather are common. Using the wrong materials may lead to warping, rotting, mildew, or surface deterioration, compromising the safety and longevity of your deck or patio.
All of this to say, choosing weather-smart, durable patio materials is more than just a wise decision—it’s essential for building a storm-proof outdoor space that can endure Southeast Michigan’s ever-changing climate.
Durable Patio Options That Can Withstand Michigan Weather
If you’re building or revamping a patio in Michigan, consider the three durable materials outlined below.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is a popular choice for patios thanks to its versatility, durability, and customizable appearance. It can mimic the look of brick, stone, or wood without the maintenance that those natural materials often require.
Stamped concrete is also resistant to rot and pests, and it can be sealed to protect against moisture and frost. Plus, it makes it easy to shovel snow during winter.
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are another reliable option. Unlike poured concrete, individual pavers allow for flexibility, making them less likely to crack during freeze-thaw cycles. They also offer excellent drainage, making them a smart choice for areas prone to heavy rain or melting snow.
Further, pavers are easy to repair. If one paver cracks or shifts, it can be replaced without redoing the entire patio. Also, their textured surface provides reliable traction even when wet, and they come in a wide range of styles and finishes to suit nearly any design preference.
Natural Stone
Natural stone (like bluestone, slate, or granite) offers an organic look and outstanding strength. While it typically comes at a higher price point, it’s a timeless investment as it is inherently weather-resistant and holds up well against Michigan’s four-season weather cycles.
One benefit of natural stone is that it doesn’t fade or deteriorate quickly, which means it maintains its appearance over time with minimal upkeep. When properly sealed, its textured surface is also slip-resistant—an important safety feature in wet or icy conditions. Bonus: Its high-end look can add resale value to your home.
Just be sure to choose stone types that can withstand freezing temperatures, and have them professionally installed with proper drainage and sealing—we’re here to help with that if needed.
Weather-Resistant Decking Options for The Great Lakes State
If a deck is more your style, you’ll want materials that offer both beauty and resilience. Luckily, there are a few reliable weather-resistant options for Michigan decks.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, engineered for longevity and minimal upkeep. It’s become one of the most popular deck materials on the market, and for good reason.
Composite decking is designed to withstand the elements without warping, splintering, or rotting. It resists fading and staining, so it will keep its color and finish season after season. And unlike traditional wood, it doesn’t require sanding or re-staining.
There is a wide range of wood-look colors and finishes available with composite decking, so you can get the natural aesthetic you want, without the upkeep. Be sure to look for brands with solid warranties and anti-slip finishes to maximize performance.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated lumber is a traditional deck material treated to resist moisture, mold, and insects. It’s an affordable option with solid performance, but it does require regular maintenance (sealing every one to two years).
Over time, pressure-treated wood is prone to fading and splintering, especially when exposed to intense sun or moisture. If not installed correctly, it can also shift or crack during Michigan’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles, which may lead to uneven surfaces or structural issues.
Still, when maintained correctly, pressure-treated wood can last for decades and offer a warm, natural aesthetic.
PVC Decking
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a completely synthetic decking material. It’s lighter than composite and often even more resistant to moisture, mold, and temperature shifts.
PVC decking offers several standout benefits for Michigan homeowners looking for durability and ease of maintenance. It’s 100% waterproof, making it an excellent choice for areas that see frequent rain or snow. The surface resists scratches, stains, and mildew, so it stays looking clean and fresh with minimal upkeep. Even on hot summer days, PVC tends to stay cool underfoot, adding to its comfort.
Overall, it’s a smart pick if you want a deck that’s practically storm-proof right out of the box.
Don’t Forget the Details: Framing, Fasteners, and Finishes
Even the most durable surface material can’t do all the work alone. A truly storm-resistant deck or patio also depends on the components beneath and around it, such as:
Fasteners: Stainless steel or coated screws are less likely to corrode and loosen in wet weather.
Drainage systems: Proper grading and drainage are essential to prevent pooling and foundation damage.
Sealers and coatings: Using the right sealant protects porous materials like concrete and wood from water and UV damage.
At MBK Constructors, we design with longevity in mind, so every layer, down to the fasteners, is chosen to hold up in Michigan’s toughest weather.
Summer is Around The Corner—Now’s The Time to Build a Backyard That Lasts
If you’re dreaming of a backyard oasis that stands up to Michigan’s wild weather, it all starts with choosing the right materials.
At MBK Constructors, we specialize in building outdoor spaces that are as durable as they are beautiful. From stamped concrete patios to low-maintenance composite decks, we help you make the best long-term investment for your home.
If you live in Michigan, you already know the weather can be unpredictable—and hard on your home. Between heavy snow, spring downpours, and freeze-thaw cycles, moisture often finds its way into basements. It’s important for homeowners to prevent basement water damage before it leads to structural issues or mold growth.
Don’t fret: We’re here to help you protect your homes from the ground up. Ahead, we’ll cover how to keep your basement dry and safe from mold, water damage, and costly repairs, no matter what the forecast holds.
Why Are Michigan Basements Especially Vulnerable to Water Damage?
There’s a lot to love about living in Michigan, but truth be told, our state’s climate puts homes through the wringer.
In late winter and early spring, melting snow and frozen ground create runoff with nowhere to go, often leading to pooling around your foundation. Spring and summer bring heavy rainstorms that saturate the soil, while fall can clog gutters with leaves, sending water straight toward your home.
All that moisture builds up in the soil and creates pressure against your foundation. Over time, it finds its way in through cracks, joints, or porous concrete. And once it’s inside, it doesn’t take long for mold to grow, especially in basements that are already dark, humid, and poorly ventilated.
4 Common Causes of Basement Water Damage
Aside from the weather, there are a few usual suspects when it comes to water intrusion:
Hydrostatic pressure: Saturated soil puts pressure on your foundation walls, forcing water through cracks.
Poor drainage: Clogged gutters, misdirected downspouts, or flat grading can channel water straight toward your home.
Foundation cracks: Even small cracks can allow water to leak through, especially during heavy storms.
Outdated or missing sump pump systems: Without a reliable way to move water out, your basement can flood.
Water Damage Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
You don’t have to wait for standing water to know there’s a problem. Look for these early warning signs:
A musty or damp smell
Mold spots or mildew in corners
Water stains on walls or floors
Cracks in the foundation
Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
If you notice any of these, it’s time to take action before the damage worsens.
How to Keep Your Basement Dry (Spoiler Alert: Waterproofing)
Basement water damage is preventable, as long as you take proactive steps to keep moisture out.
At MBK Constructors, we specialize in comprehensive waterproofing solutions designed for Michigan’s unique climate. Whether you’re dealing with an existing issue or looking to avoid future problems, here’s how we can help you protect your basement.
Exterior Drainage Improvements
The slope of your yard should help water drain away from your home, not toward it. MBK can come out and inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure they’re diverting water far enough away from the foundation to prevent basement water damage.
If needed, we’ll adjust the grading, extend downspouts, or recommend drainage solutions that will help prevent water from pooling around your foundation.
Interior Waterproofing Systems
Interior waterproof systems provide a powerful backup in the unfortunate event of water seeping inside. MBK can install vapor barriers to block moisture, drainage tile systems to carry water to a sump pump, and sealants to keep walls and floors protected. These systems work together to manage moisture and reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
Foundation Crack Repair
Even tiny cracks in your foundation can allow water to seep in over time. The MBK team uses professional-grade materials to seal cracks and reinforce weak points, preventing small problems from turning into major repairs.
Sump Pump Installation & Maintenance
A reliable sump pump is essential to prevent basement water damage in Michigan homes. MBK installs high-efficiency systems that automatically remove water buildup and keep your space dry.
Already have a sump pump? We can inspect and maintain it to ensure it’s ready when you need it most, especially during spring melts and summer storms.
How Waterproofing Pays Off for Michigan Homeowners
Waterproofing isn’t just about avoiding messes—it’s about protecting your investment. Proper waterproofing helps preserve the structural integrity of your home, ensuring that your foundation stays solid for years to come.
Taking proactive steps to waterproof your basement also means fewer repairs down the road. Moisture problems, if left untreated, can lead to severe damage. Water damage remediation can cost anywhere from$2,000 to $6,000, depending on the extent of the damage. Not to mention, mold; according to Restoration 1, professionals usually charge between $10 and $25 per square footto remove mold, so treating a 100-square-foot area can cost around $1,000 to $2,500.
Finally, waterproofing your basement opens up the possibility to transform the space into something that suits your lifestyle. Whether you want to build a home office, gym, guest suite, or more storage, you can transform your basement into a functional area (so long as it’s dry). This extra space not only enhances your home’s livability but also increases its overall value.
MBK Constructors for Expert Basement Waterproofing
We’ve spent over three decades helping homeowners in the greater Ann Arbor area keep their homes dry, safe, and structurally sound. If you’re seeing early signs of water damage or want to proactively waterproof your basement, we’re here to help.
Michigan winters can be particularly tough on homes, with cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and the constant threat of ice buildup. These conditions can lead to a variety of issues, such as sagging roofs, leaks, and drainage problems caused by ice dams. Additionally, the biting wind chill associated with the season increases the risk of damage to both the interior and exterior of homes.
For that reason, it’s crucial for those in the Ann Arbor area to address winter-related concerns before they snowball (pun intended). To make it as easy as possible, we’ve put together a spring home maintenance checklist specifically for Michigan residents.
5 Tasks to Add to Your Spring Home Maintenance Checklist
1. Inspect Your Foundation
During Michigan winters, freeze-thaw cycles can significantly impact your home’s foundation, causing cracks, settling, or shifting.
When it rains, water seeps into the cracks in your foundation. Then, it freezes, expanding and putting pressure on the foundation, which can potentially worsen these cracks over time. It’s essential to inspect both the exterior and interior of your foundation for any visible cracks, particularly those that appear to widen as the weather warms up.
And speaking of warming up, the spring thaw brings another concern: water damage. Melting snow and ice can lead to moisture infiltration, which may cause your foundation to weaken or lead to mold growth in your basement or crawl space. Check for water stains, dampness, or unusual odors, particularly in areas where moisture may have accumulated during the winter months.
To do:
Check the interior and exterior of your foundation for cracks. If you find one, monitor whether it grows as the weather warms up.
Check for signs of water damage. Look for water stains, dampness, and unusual odors.
2. Check for Drainage Issues
Proper water drainage helps prevent long-term damage to your home’s foundation. During Michigan winters, ice and debris can accumulate in your gutters, causing blockages that prevent water from flowing properly. When there’s an overflow, water will run down the sides of your house and pool near the foundation, potentially causing moisture damage—an expensive problem.
To check for drainage issues, start by assessing the condition of your gutters and downspouts. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear, securely attached, and directing water away from your home.
Next, inspect the grading around your foundation. If you notice any low spots or areas where water might pool, you may need to regrade the soil. The ground should slope away from the house, allowing water to flow away from the foundation rather than toward it. Over time, the ground can settle or erode, causing areas where water may collect around the foundation.
Finally, check for pooling water around the foundation or in the basement, especially after a spring rain or thaw. If you find standing water in your basement, it could indicate a need for additional drainage solutions, such as French drains or sump pumps, to prevent flooding and long-term water damage.
To do:
Assess the condition of your gutters and downspouts. Ensure they are clear of blockages, securely attached to your house, and directing water away from (not toward) the building.
Inspect the grading around your foundation. Look for low spots where water could pool and ensure the ground slopes away from your home.
Check for pooling water around the foundation and inside your basement. Pooling water is an indicator of a grading issue. If you think you need to regrade, give us a call (734-994-4644).
3. Inspect Exterior Walls and Doors
During Michigan winters, materials expand and contract due to repeated freezing and thawing. In some cases, the freeze-thaw cycle can cause damage to the exterior of your home, particularly to doors, door frames, and paneling.
To assess whether your home has been affected, walk around the exterior and examine the walls for signs of damage, such as cracks, peeling paint, and warped panels. These issues not only affect your home’s insulation but can also lead to water damage or pest intrusion if left unaddressed.
Pay close attention to areas around doors and windows, where seals and caulking may have deteriorated over the winter. In some cases, missing flashing can leave caulking as the only line of defense against moisture, leading to leaks and water damage over time. Fortunately, replacing cracked caulking or adding new weather stripping is an affordable way to make your home more energy-efficient and prevent larger problems down the line.
Also, check that doors open and close smoothly. Note whether there are any warped frames or misaligned hinges. These are signs of structural movement, so it may be worth consulting a professional to assess whether more serious issues are developing if you notice them.
To do:
Examine the exterior walls of your home. Look for cracks in siding or masonry, peeling paint, warped panels, or any gaps where cold air and moisture can seep inside.
Check your doors and windows for signs of deterioration. Look for worn-down weather stripping and cracked caulking.
Ensure your doors open and close smoothly. Shifting and settling during the winter months can cause warped door frames and misaligned hinges.
4. Evaluate the Roof and Chimney
Your roof takes the brunt of Michigan’s winter weather—snow, ice, wind, and fluctuating temperatures all cause wear and tear. That said, assessing the state of your roof should be a part of every Michigander’s spring home maintenance checklist. Visually inspect your roof, looking for signs of compromised materials, such as curling, missing, or damaged shingles. Pay particular attention to spots where ice dams may have formed, as these can lead to leaks and water damage under the shingles.
Next, check the flashing around your chimney, vents, and any skylights. Flashing is essential for preventing water damage, so if you experienced leaks during the winter, it’s a good idea to have a professional inspect your flashing more closely.
Finally, inspect the chimney itself. Freeze-thaw cycles can cause bricks and mortar joints to crack or crumble, leading to structural instability or water infiltration. Check for efflorescence (a white or gray powdery substance that appears on concrete), spalling (flaking or crumbling brick), or leaning. These can all indicate that repairs are needed to maintain the integrity and safety of the chimney.
To do:
Inspect your roof from the ground (or a ladder, if you’re comfortable with that). Look for damaged or missing shingles, sagging areas, and signs of granule loss.
Check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Damaged flashing allows water to seep through the roof deck and into your home, potentially causing water damage.
Assess the state of your chimney. Check for efflorescence, spalling, and leaning.
5. Assess Driveways, Sidewalks, and Patios
Concrete and asphalt surfaces are prone to cracking, shifting, and surface deterioration during Michigan winters. That’s why, come spring, it’s important to inspect your driveway, sidewalks, and patio for new or worsening cracks, pitting, or uneven surfaces that could lead to further damage if left unaddressed.
Also, check for pooling water, which can indicate drainage issues or low spots created by winter ground movement. Over time, standing water can erode materials and cause further settling, especially around the edges of patios or walkways.
If you notice significant cracking or uneven sections in any of these areas, it may be time to consider resurfacing, sealing, or even replacing affected areas. Early maintenance can extend the life of these surfaces and help you avoid more expensive repairs in the future. For minor issues, patching or sealing cracks can be a quick and effective solution to prevent water from getting in and causing additional damage next winter.
To do:
Inspect your driveway, sidewalks, and patio. Look for tripping hazards such as large cracks, pitting, and uneven surfaces.
Check for pooling water around your driveway, sidewalks, and patio. Pooling water can be caused by inadequate drainage, poor soil conditions, and the presence of impermeable surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt.
When in Doubt, Call MBK Constructors
Cracks, bowing, pooling water, and other signs of settling and shifting can become costly problems if they’re not addressed in a timely manner. If you complete our spring home maintenance checklist and notice any of the signs of damage we mentioned, a professional inspection is the next best step.
