Friday, January 13, 2006

THE LAY OF THE LAND

As long as water continues to run downhill, exterior grading (the slope of the land and anything next to the house-ie.patios, sidewalks, driveways) will be the most important aspect of keeping your basement dry and usable.
When a house is built, a big hole is dug into the ground, the house is constructed, and the soil is replaced. Because it needs to be higher near the house so that water drains away from the foundation, the builder allows for the extra soil height and all is well. Unfortunately after the builder leaves the soil still settles, and in a few years is actually lower near the house than out in the yard eight feet away. Rain and melting snow are now directed towards the low areas (near the house) and the water may enter the basement. The same can be true for patios, walkways, driveways, anything near the house.
When everyone else is looking at the back yard and envisioning where the swingset will go, look to see if there are any noticible low areas near the house. When you go the basement look in these same areas for a sump pump or water stains. Water marks can also show up as discoloration on the bottoms of doors and interior walls. You don't need to see standing water to have water concerns, especially with todays mold issues.
Water in basements can be remedied but it can be costly.