Maintenance Guides / Exterior & Structure

Check foundation grading

Difficulty: moderateTime: 120 minsEst. Cost: $200 - $1500

Why it matters

Negative grade is the #1 cause of wet basements.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Stand on ground next to foundation wall and assess slope.

  • 2

    Soil should slope away from house 1 inch per 12 inches.

  • 3

    Walk perimeter and note level/back-sloping areas.

  • 4

    Measure soil needed for proper slope.

  • 5

    Add topsoil and compact gently to create 1-in-per-ft slope.

  • 6

    Seed/sod new soil and monitor after heavy rains.