Improper Grading

Grading problems are are not that unusual, and there are ways you can improve your grade and minimize problems.

Drainage problems are often the result of improper grading. That's where the ground is sloped toward the house, allowing water to collect near the foundation where it can eventually seep into the basement. With a properly graded surface the ground slopes away from the foundation keeping water away from the house.

Grading problems are not that unusual. It takes three to five years after construction for the fill dirt around a new home to settle and that's when problems are likely to be spotted. In an older home like the one in Baltimore, Maryland, soil erosion was the culprit. Whatever the reason, there are a few things you can do to improve your grade and minimize problems.

Grading should flow away from the house at a slope of approximately one inch per foot.
Build up the slope using dirt making sure that the surface is free from gullies that might collect water.
Down spout extensions are also a good way to channel the water even further away from the foundation.

Grading is usually a low maintenance issue. Once the slope is established, you can spend your time on those other projects around the house.