When it comes to basement waterproofing, there is one crucial aspect homeowners sometimes overlook: the slope of their yard. Yard grading is the process of properly sloping the soil around a home to ensure proper drainage and prevent water from seeping into the basement.
Are you interested in learning more about basement waterproofing and the tools that are used during the process? This basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois is going to review them below, and we’ll also explore some of the techniques that are commonly used to grade yards.
Essential tools for yard grading
To achieve proper yard grading for basement waterproofing, there are several essential tools that every basement waterproofing company should have. These tools include:
- Mini-Excavator or Skid Steer: A reliable mini-excavator or skid steer is essential for quickly digging and moving soil during the yard grading process. This type of heavy machinery should only be operated by a licensed basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois.
- Pickaxe: A pickaxe can be useful for breaking up compacted soil and removing rocks or debris that may hinder proper yard grading.
- Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is necessary for transporting soil, gravel, or other materials during yard grading.
- Level: A level is essential for ensuring that the yard grading is done accurately. It helps in determining the slope and adjusting as needed.
- Rake: A rake is useful for spreading and smoothing out the soil near the end of the process.
The importance of proper yard grading for basement waterproofing
If you own a home in the Riverwoods area, having a properly sloped yard is essential. By sloping the land away from the foundation, yard grading helps to redirect water and prevent it from pooling around the basement walls. If the yard is not properly graded, water can seep into the basement, leading to dampness, mold growth, structural damage, and other issues.
Additionally, proper yard grading also helps to prevent soil erosion. When water is not properly directed away from the foundation, it can erode the soil, destabilizing the foundation and causing structural issues. Again, you can avoid these costly issues by having your yard graded by a professional basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois.
Yard grading techniques for effective basement waterproofing:
- Make sure the land slopes away from the foundation: The land around the foundation should be sloped away from the home to ensure proper drainage. In most cases, the recommended slope is at least one inch per foot for the first ten feet away from the foundation.
- Create swales or channels: Swales or channels can be created to direct water away from the foundation. These shallow depressions in the land can help guide water towards a designated drainage area.
- Install drainage systems: In areas with poor natural drainage, it may be necessary to install drainage systems, such as French drains. These systems help to collect and redirect water away from the foundation.
- Implement landscaping features: Incorporating landscaping features, such as berms or retaining walls, can help in redirecting water and preventing soil erosion. These features can add aesthetic value while also serving a functional purpose.
By combining these yard grading techniques with the proper use of tools and machinery, basement waterproofing companies in Riverwoods, Illinois can ensure your home remains dry throughout the year.
Looking for a Basement Waterproofing Company in Riverwoods, Illinois?
Are you ready to have your yard professionally graded? If so, and if you’re looking for the premier basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois that can carry out the process, ULB-DRY Waterproofing is the top choice. Contact us today to learn more about our process and techniques.