Drainage Solutions

Maintaining the proper drainage around a home is a tricky and important part of foundation maintenance. It’s a good idea to keep a positive slope away from the structure approximately 5% for a distance of 5 feet (3” in 5’), where possible so that excess water will flow away from the foundation. Soil levels against a slab foundation should be approximately two to three inches below the brick line on a and about halfway up on a pier and beam. A swale or gently sloping channel is normally included between structures to avoid erosion. While not absolutely necessary, gutters and properly dispersed downspouts can help control moisture problems. The use of downspout extension and splash-blocks, or underground piping to reduce erosion direct the excess water to flow away, are highly recommended.