Though it's an essential step in basement
construction, backfilling is all too
often done quickly and carelessly, without
attention to the details that make for
a successful job. But if not done right,
backfilling can cause serious foundation
problems — problems that can be avoided
by taking a few simple precautions.
There are four key elements to proper
backfilling:
1) Protecting the foundation wall from
damage
2) Using the right backfill materials
3) Compacting the backfill
4) Final grading to ensure that water
runs away from the foundation
Properly done, these four steps help to
ensure that a well-built basement functions
the way it's supposed to — providing
the homeowner with dry, usable
living space.
Protecting the Wall
During Backfilling
The surest way