How many years can a foundation last?

Author: Kory Ryan  |  Last update: Thursday, July 31, 2025

For the average home, foundation should last about 80-100 years before needing to be replaced. But not repairing your foundation will make that number of years a lot smaller for your home.

What is the lifespan of a foundation?

On average, a concrete foundation lasts 100-200 years.

However, an extremely well-built foundation could last 400+ years, and a poorly-built foundation might start to deteriorate after only 25 years.

Can I use 10 year old foundation?

Using expired makeup isn't the best idea. Over time, it can harbor bacteria, lose effectiveness, and potentially cause skin irritation. Your skin deserves the best, so it's better to play it safe and ditch anything past its prime.

How long do foundations last?

Water-based foundation typically is good for a year, while oil-based foundation is good for about 18 months. Consider replacing cream-based foundation or blushes every six months to a year. Powder products, if stored properly and free from moisture, are good for up to two years.

How long is foundation actually good for?

Generally, liquid foundations can last up to two years if stored properly. The moment you notice any changes in the texture/colour/smell, stop using it.

How long foundation lasts - Usage time vs. Expired time

How can I tell if my foundation has expired?

Your liquid foundation might exhibit any of the following characteristics that are signs of expiration: An unexplained change in color or tone. Suddenly the foundation just doesn't seem to match your complexion. Rapid drying out once on the face, and potential flaking.

How often should you replace foundation?

Foundation and concealer

Liquid foundations and concealers should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. Powders can last up to 2 years. Cream formulas fall somewhere in between — about 12 to 18 months.

When to throw out foundation?

As a guideline: Foundation, primer, blush and eyeshadow may last up to 2 years. Lipstick should last for one year after it is opened. Eye makeup such as mascara and eyeliner would need to be replaced every three months.

How do I know if my foundation needs replacing?

Look for cracked walls, sticking doors or windows, and gaps between walls and floors. Exterior brick or concrete cracks, plumbing issues, rotten wood, or carpenter ants are also red flags. Regular maintenance is key; keep an eye out for pests, termites, and humidity levels to spot foundation issues early.

How many years does house foundation last?

Most homes have a foundation made of concrete that serves as a sturdy, level base for the walls and roof. Without a foundation, your home would sink into the dirt and fall apart. Although concrete is strong, it isn't invincible and will eventually start to degrade. Concrete foundations usually last around 80-100 years.

Is it OK to use 4 year old foundation?

The One-Year Rule for Foundation Freshness

The rule of thumb is that most liquid, cream, and stick foundations deteriorate in quality about one year from the date you open them. It's not necessarily dangerous to use foundation at this point, but the integrity of the original product is no longer there.

Is it safe to use 2 years expired foundation?

“Using expired makeup can lead to various skin issues like irritation, inflammation, acne breakouts, and even infections,” explains Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, aesthetic physician and founder of aesthetic clinic, ISAAC Luxe.

What is the best foundation for dry skin?

Top foundations for dry skin
  • e.l.f Soft Glam Satin Foundation. ...
  • Max Factor Miracle Pure Skin Revival Serum Foundation. ...
  • Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation. ...
  • Saie Glowy Super Skin Foundation. ...
  • L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation. ...
  • Morphe Lightform Extended Hydration Foundation. ...
  • Kosas Revealer Foundation SPF25.

How long will a cinder block foundation last?

Even with a lifespan of up to 100 years, you can be sure the building's structural integrity isn't compromised over the years like it can be with wood. Concrete structures make it easy to sleep at night – even stormy ones – because you know your family or tenants have block on their side.

At what point does a foundation need to be replaced?

If your entire concrete slab foundation is crumbling, uneven, and cracked all at the same time, it's a good idea to invest in foundation replacement. But just remember, this is an extreme example—damage like this isn't the norm.

Are foundation years worth it?

Why a foundation year is worth it. A foundation year course gives you your first step into university, where you'll study a wide range of topics in your chosen field. On your foundation year you'll: Get used to the way lectures, tutorials and uni life runs.

Does homeowners insurance cover foundation issues?

Homeowners insurance generally pays for foundation repairs that result from covered events. However, if the cause of the damage isn't covered in your policy, repairs probably won't be either.

How much does foundation repair cost?

Overall, the cost of foundation repair tends to be between $2,000 and $7,500, with a national average of $4,500.

What a bad foundation looks like?

Cracks wider than 1/4 inch. Foundation settling or sinking. Structural issues such as bowing walls or uneven floors. Water intrusion problems.

How many years does foundation last?

Cream, powder, or liquid foundation has a long shelf life of about two years. For liquid formulas, Koestline says that if it starts to separate is when you need to toss it. Koestline says eyeshadow that contains any water should only be used for a year since you're using it close to the eye area.

What does expired foundation look like?

Almost all products will have a chemical-like smell or a strong unpleasant odor with expired makeup. The texture and consistency of the product may also change depending on the formula; watch out for clumpiness, drying out or separation when applying.

Does foundation wear off?

A thick layer of makeup is more prone to sliding off your face throughout the day because it just can't adhere as well to skin. If you have oily skin, try an absorbent mattifying foundation primer before you apply your sunscreen and foundation.

When should I be worried about foundation?

Signs you need foundation repair

Foundation walls are bowing. Water isn't draining properly away from your foundation. Moisture is present in your crawl space or basement. Your floors are slanted or sagging.

How long does it take to replace a foundation?

can all be potential factors that would affect the length of the job that are outside of your crew's control. While one day is the best-case scenario, it is safe to say that two or three days would be the average fix time for foundation repair issues.

When to throw out old makeup?

When to Throw Away Makeup
  1. Mascara. Average life span: four to six months. ...
  2. Eyeliner. Average life span: one year. ...
  3. Foundation. Average life span: one year. ...
  4. Concealer. Average life span: one year. ...
  5. Blush and Eye Shadow. Average life span: one to two years. ...
  6. Lipstick. Average life span: eight months. ...
  7. Makeup Brushes. ...
  8. Fragrances.

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