Flooding and erosion can lead to significant amounts of damage to a property, which can be costly to fix.
It’s far better for homeowners to be proactive when they notice any issues with the property and take time to make changes that can help keep the yard safe. To protect the home from flooding or erosion, try the following.
Add a Retaining Wall
Retaining walls help hold land in place, which can help protect against erosion and provide ways for water to move off the property.
When a property has steep angles going away from the home, retaining walls can help keep plants and soil in place.
Retaining walls do need to be properly designed and installed to make sure they are effective and will hold up long-term. Homeowners can work with companies like Masonworks to construct a retaining wall designed to fit the property.
Check and Fix the Grading
The grading of a property refers to the downward slope of the land away from the home. This should be measured in multiple locations to make sure the land has enough of a slope to let water move away from the foundation and prevent foundation damage or flooding around the home.
If the grading is not sufficient, it is possible to adjust the grading to help move water better and prevent issues that could damage the home significantly.
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Change the Landscaping
Adjustments to the landscaping can help prevent erosion. Erosion happens when the soil is able to move freely with the rain or wind.
Planting trees and plants that have longer roots can help keep the land in place, preventing erosion.
It is best to use native options where possible, as these will provide many more benefits, such as supporting local wildlife and growing without as much water or extra care needed.
Use Longer Downspouts
If water pools around the foundation, extending the downspout can help move it further away. Along with extending the downspout, pay attention to where the water lands when it comes out.
Using rocks can help encourage the water to move even further away from the home, protecting the foundation further.
Check the grading before extending the downspout, as the water will just flow back toward the house or pool close to the downspout if the land doesn’t slope downward away from the home.
Use Rain Barrels
Gathering the excess rain can help prevent it from pooling close to the foundation and help protect against erosion.
If there are small areas that tend to flood easier, placing a rain barrel can help collect the water so it can be used elsewhere in the yard when it’s not raining. It is possible to put rain barrels directly under downspouts to help prevent water from puddling near the end, too.
Once the rain barrels are full, it’s possible to use the water for garden beds, washing outdoor items, and other purposes. It is not recommended to drink the water due to potential contaminants.
Are you worried about flooding or erosion around the outside of your home? The tips here can help you correct the issues around the home, protecting the foundation from excess water or from erosion moving the soil away.
Talk to a professional about options like adding a retaining wall to learn more about how they can help protect your home and property.
