If you don’t manage rainwater properly, it can seep into the soil around your home and cause big problems for your foundation. Fortunately, with some smart planning, you can protect your foundation and preserve your outdoor living areas. Here are two good places to start:
Divert roof water with proper drainage. Allowing roof water to fall directly next to your foundation is one of the most common causes of soil erosion and moisture damage. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are working correctly and connected to a drain system that directs water into your yard or to a safe drainage point.
Install surface drains around hardscaping. If you’re designing a patio or paved area near your house, don’t forget about built-in drainage. A network of surface drains will ensure runoff doesn’t collect near your home. Hardscapes should also be installed with a minimum slope of 2%, which will encourage water to flow away rather than pool against the foundation.
