How to Check If Your Yard Is Draining Away From Your Foundation
A simple homeowner test for spotting yard grading problems before they cause bigger drainage issues near your foundation.
The Hose Test
Run a hose near the foundation for 15 to 20 minutes and watch where the water goes. It should move away from the house within a few feet, not pool or sit near the foundation wall.
Signs of a Grading Problem
Standing water more than 24 hours after a storm, damp spots in a crawl space, or visible erosion channels running toward the house are all signs the grade around your home needs attention.
When to Call a Pro Instead
If the fix requires more than minor soil addition, like a retaining wall, French drain, or full regrading, that's a job for a contractor who can grade to the correct slope and account for Kansas clay soil.
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Prepping and Staining a Wood Deck Before Winter
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