Landscape Grading and Your Home

Grading that can collect and hold water near and next to a foundation wall can cause water issuses in the basement. Water in a finished basement area can lead to mold growth within 48 hours. Long term water leakage can cause wood rot to wall framing members and can damage the foundation. Stored items can become damaged after a flood into a basement.

I find grading problems on almost every home that I inspect. Most issues will occur in the spring when the ground begins to thaw and spring rain arrives. The grade is just like a roof on a house. A grade that pitches towards a home can direct water to the home. This can be critical during the winter when the ground is frozen and snow covered. A heavy rain can quickly cause flooding next to a foundation wall and then leak into the basement. Heavy rain can occur any time during the year.

It’s not bad idea to have your home professional inspected for proper drainage.