I have a problem with water leaking into the foundation of our cabin and was told that I should check the grading first. I know this is the slope of the ground near the cabin but how much of a slope do I need?

Neil
Wednesday, March 23, 2005

I've found that there are a number of sources with specifics on this, but they seem to vary widely in their recommendations. It may depend on the type of soil around your cottage, as this has a huge impact on how far water will seep laterally.

Based on what I've found a reliable rule of thumb would be to ensure that the grade within ten feet of the house is correct. The rise should be one inch for each for foot of those ten feet.

Hope that helps,

Derek

Derek
Sunday, April 3, 2005

Before you go to all the trouble of working on the grade, be sure that it's not a problem with your gutters. If they're overflowing and dumping rainwater at the base of the structure, then correcting the grading alone won't help you.

B. Skidder
Tuesday, April 12, 2005