If your home has drainage issues, you need to make sure that your home’s drainage is adequately set up. This will prevent the foundation from sinking into the ground and causing other problems. You can do this yourself or hire a professional contractor to do it for you. Learn about the issues caused by poor grading, how to do foundation drainage repair, and how much it will cost.
Problems caused by lousy grading
Bad grading can cause problems with the foundation drainage of your home. Even if your lot is flat, it is essential to grade it so that rainwater flows away from the house. Gravel has a high porosity, absorbing water and moving it away from the foundation. Gravel should be placed a layer below the foundation, and weeping tiles should be installed above the gravel. Using a level, walk around the perimeter of your house to ensure that you have a continuous downward grade. If you see that the edge of the story is flush with the siding, you have a problem with bad grading.
Proper grading around a house should be at least six inches per 10 feet, preferably on a slope. A steeper grade will effectively direct water away from the foundation and prevent rot and insect infestation. Depending on the situation, you may need a drainage system or concrete leveling.
Solutions to fix a drainage problem
If you are experiencing water seepage around your home, you should take steps to remedy the situation. This will help prevent future foundation repair costs. You can begin by getting a free inspection. An inspector will assess your foundation drainage problem and recommend the best solution for your home.
Another solution is to make sure that the drainage system is graded correctly. This will help whisk water away from your foundation and prevent wood rot and insect infestation. Generally, the soil around a house should slope away from the foundation at a rate of six inches per ten feet. You may also need to install a drainage system to ensure water is directed away from your home. In some cases, concrete leveling may also be required.
Cost of a drainage system
There are a few different types of foundation drainage systems. A traditional French drain is one option. These systems use a pipe with a connection box that is offset from the grade and carries water away from the foundation. They are relatively inexpensive to install and can save up to $1,700. Another option is to build a drainage ditch to direct water away from the foundation. A drainage ditch will cost about $0.50 to $1 per square foot.
The cost of a drainage system depends on how complex it is. It is often cheaper to install a surface drain if it is unnecessary. This method will also save you money since you don’t need to dig as deep or haul and install pea gravel.
Methods of repairing a drainage system
Contact a professional if you suspect your home’s drainage system needs repair. Foundation drainage repair is a complicated process that can cost you a lot of money. It is also essential to know that improperly installed drainage systems can cause further damage to your home.
Foundation drainage problems can cause your yard to flood regularly. Floods can cause significant landscaping damage and can even lead to harmful mold colonies. It would help if you had your foundation fixed before this happens, as it is an essential part of your home. Professional foundation drainage repair services often recommended that you install steel or concrete piers to support your home. However, you can perform the same job by implementing innovative drainage solutions.
Failure of a drainage system
If you’re experiencing drainage problems in your home, it’s essential to have your drainage system checked by a professional. If your system is not functioning correctly, it can indicate more severe problems. Fortunately, most foundation drainage problems are preventable with proper maintenance. A professional will detect any issues and suggest solutions to fix them. Reasonable care will help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
Poor foundation drainage can cause cracks in your floor, resulting in hydrostatic pressure on your walls. This excess pressure can cause cracks in your floor, foundation, and walls. These cracks will let in more water and further undermine your home’s stability.
Alternatives to a drainage system
A proper drainage system is an essential part of good foundation drainage repair. Two popular drainage systems are the French drain and the swale. Henry Flagg French invented both.
While underground drains can be effective, they are not always the best solution. Generally, they work best when the soil around the foundation is graded correctly. Furthermore, sock tiles act as filters to prevent dirt and water from entering the system.