Foundation Soil Grading
Over the course of several years, the excavated soil around the foundation will begin to settle. As it does, it will create a "dip" in the yard around the edge of the foundation that will collect water from rain and snow. This encourages water to collect around your foundation and will make your problem even worse.
If your foundation soil is pitched towards your home, it's recommended that you add dirt to the area until the slope moves away from the house (this is known as "grading"). This soil should be dense- preferably clay soil. Adding sand and mulch will drain water straight through and around your foundation, ultimately making the problem worse. It's also important to make sure that the soil does not reach up to the siding. A four-inch gap between the soil line and the siding will ensure that it will not rot or become a pathway for termites and carpenter ants seeking to enter your home.
If your foundation soil is pitched towards your home, it's recommended that you add dirt to the area until the slope moves away from the house (this is known as "grading"). This soil should be dense- preferably clay soil. Adding sand and mulch will drain water straight through and around your foundation, ultimately making the problem worse. It's also important to make sure that the soil does not reach up to the siding. A four-inch gap between the soil line and the siding will ensure that it will not rot or become a pathway for termites and carpenter ants seeking to enter your home.
