Congratulations on your new home in Decatur! As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s crucial to pay attention to the details that contribute to a comfortable and safe living environment. One often overlooked aspect is proper grading. The way your property is graded can have a significant impact on drainage, landscaping, and the overall longevity of your home. At Lawn in Order, we value the importance of proper grading for new residential properties. Here are some essential tips to ensure your property has been properly graded before moving in.
Understanding Proper Grading
Grading refers to the process of leveling the ground to achieve an optimal slope and drainage system. It involves shaping the land around your home to ensure that water flows away from the foundation, preventing potential issues like basement flooding, erosion, or damage to the structure itself.
Importance of Proper Grading
Grading that is done correctly not only benefits the aesthetics of your lawn, but it can also impact your safety. Here are some important reasons why customers trust Lawn in Order for proper grading services in Decatur:
- Prevents Water Accumulation: A properly graded property ensures that rainwater and runoff are directed away from the foundation, preventing water from pooling near the base of your home. This is particularly crucial in areas with high rainfall or properties located on slopes.
- Preserves Landscaping: Effective grading helps maintain the health and aesthetics of your landscaping by preventing soil erosion. It helps in retaining topsoil, keeping plants, trees, and shrubs firmly rooted and preventing erosion-induced damage.
- Foundation Protection: Improper grading can lead to water seepage into the foundation, causing cracks, weakening the structure, and inviting mold or mildew growth. Proper grading acts as a protective barrier, safeguarding your home’s foundation against moisture-related issues.
Tips to Ensure Proper Grading
What if your property has already been graded – how can you tell if it has been performed properly? We suggest the following steps:
- Conduct a Thorough Inspection: Before finalizing the purchase of your new home, hire a professional home inspector or a reputable grading contractor to assess the property’s grading. Our Lawn in Order team members can identify any potential issues and provide recommendations for remediation.
- Observe Water Flow: During a heavy rainstorm or after watering your lawn, observe how water flows on the property. Ideally, it should move away from the foundation, preferably toward a designated drainage area or stormwater system. If you notice water pooling near the foundation or in low-lying areas, it may indicate grading problems.
- Check for Erosion Signs: Look for signs of soil erosion, such as exposed tree roots, gullies, or areas where the soil appears uneven or washed away. Erosion can be an indication of improper grading or insufficient drainage, warranting attention and potential remedies.
- Hire a Professional Grading Contractor: If grading issues are identified, it is crucial to hire a professional grading contractor, such as Lawn in Order, with experience in Decatur and the surrounding communities. We can accurately assess the situation, develop a grading plan, and execute the necessary modifications to ensure proper water drainage.
- Consider Landscape Alterations: Depending on the grading assessment, you might need to make minor or major landscape alterations. This could include regrading specific areas, installing drainage systems or swales, and strategically planting vegetation to promote better water absorption.
Schedule Expert Grading in Decatur
Proper grading is an essential consideration when moving into a new home in Decatur, or any location for that matter. By ensuring correct grading, you can protect your investment, prevent water-related issues, and maintain a healthy and beautiful landscape. Take the time to inspect and address any grading concerns before moving in
Call Lawn in Order to ensure your property’s grading is optimized for long-term stability and functionality. Remember, a well-graded property is the foundation for a comfortable and worry-free living experience.
