One of the most common observations in a home inspection is that the lot grading / drainage is substandard in one or more areas around the perimeter of the home. This is due to the repercussions that can occur due to improper grading.
“Grading” refers to the soil’s relation to the structure. The soil and other materials along the foundation should be graded in such a manner as to allow rainwater to run away from the structure.
Why is proper grading so important?
Having the lot properly graded promotes ideal water drainage away from your home and its foundation. Believe it or not, but poor grading can lead to foundation leakage and basement water problems. In severe cases it can also lead to accelerated foundation deterioration which could potentially lead to a structural problem.
In most cases the grading can be fixed with some minor landscaping and improvements, but in other cases it may require extensive excavation and help from a professional with the proper equipment. This can be very common especially with older homes where the importance of proper grading didn’t seem to gather as much attention back then as it does with newer homes today.
In addition to a proper slope away from the home — The grade should always maintain clearance from the siding materials. This practice avoids trapping water against the foundation, inviting moisture or wood destroying insects into the basement or wall.