Fill dirt used for corrective
grading
around foundation
where original backfill
settled.
1 Inadequate Drainage
The backfill in the overdig area around
foundation walls inevitably settles. This
creates a negative grade toward the foundation.
Downspouts that empty roof
drainage into this area (something splash
blocks won't prevent) increase ground
saturation. This results in the hydrostatic
pressure that creates damp basements
and wet crawlspaces. Build foundations
high enough to establish a more pronounced
grade away from the house, and
extend downspouts with leader pipes to
deliver water past the overdig area.
The gravel beds beneath sidewalks
and driveways are often traps for yard
runoff water. This leads to settlement
and slab cracking in all climates, and
frost heaving where it's cold. Knowing
where surface water