Water should always run down away from a home, not towards it. Water that’s trapped against the edges of a home — whether it’s a concrete slab or a pier and beam construction — will cause long-term erosion damage that compromises the structure. The grade determines what direction the water travels in and where it goes.
What should the grade be?
Every soil type is different, and that can play a large role in how steep your home’s grade should (or can) be. However, most experts recommend a grade of one foot for every five feet of distance, all around the edge of your home. Your home’s floors should also be six to twelve inches above the typical soil level (at least).
If the grade is too shallow, water can still pool against your home’s walls as the soil absorbs it. It’s also easy for landscaping, foot traffic and the wind to upset a gradient that’s too flat. At the same time, a steep grade is vulnerable to a lot of erosion. If too much of your home’s foundation is exposed or the soil pulls too far away from the edge of the structure, your home’s foundation will be compromised during the next storm or flash flood.
Why should a professional change your property’s soil grade?
Fixing your property’s soil grade is one of the best ways to protect your foundation and your home. A professional can analyze your soil, landscaping layout, and gutter system to create the best plan. They also have access to water table records, topography information, and an updated flood hazard map.
Just as importantly, they have the tools to get it done. If your home’s grade has been changed due to erosion, the electrical wires and plumbing could be closed to the surface than they seem. Professionals can shore up the soil without damaging or compromising the area. Contact our team at East Texas Contractors for an evaluation and a quote.