Incorrectly installed landscaping. Foundation beds should follow the original grade of site, not slope toward the house. Soil compaction. The soil used to back-fill around foundations settles over the years. As it does, grading can flatten or even begin to slope toward the foundation. Soil erosion. Wind and water can cause soil erosion, also resulting in flat or negative grades.
It’s easy to check the grade around your house. You’ll need a level and a flat, straight piece of thin plywood or metal that won’t sag. Here’s what you do: As mentioned, the ground should slope away from the house for several feet at a grade of at least 1 inch per foot. As an example, if you’re using a 3-foot level, there should be a 3-inch difference between the two ends of the level. This may not seem like much, but it’s all you need to keep water away from your house.
