5 Questions to Ask About Minor Grading or Resloping Your Property

Waterproofing a foundation, directing standing water downhill, and addressing erosion concerns are all reasons to grade or reslope your property. This job is something that can take a day or a week but either way, you need to hire a landscaping pro with expertise in grading. Here’s what you can expect to discuss on your first call or visit to your property. 

1. What is the purpose of grading?

The purpose of grading (also called sloping or resloping) is to direct water away from your home or, to be more specific, your home’s foundation. Water damage to your foundation can become a serious problem if the water issues are not addressed immediately. There are other ways to prevent water damage, but grading is at the top of the list. 

2. When do you need this work done?

While not necessarily an emergency, any grading or resloping work that addresses a known water issue needs to be handled quickly. Note that this type of work is extremely difficult and expensive if you need to have it done during winter when the ground is frozen. The best time to regrade is before the first frost or when spring is in full swing. 

3. What kind of location is this?

Most grading will be done to reroute standing or pooling water away from the home. However, this project becomes more complicated if you have multiple structures on the property. Another issue is that a pro can’t grade your yard if it ends up flooding your neighbor's property. Allow ample time for professionals to survey your property before making the final decision. 

4. Have you surveyed your property or do you have landscape plans?

Most houses are surveyed pre-sale. If you don’t know if you have this information, ask the city, as there is a chance landscape plans or survey info is on file. These will likely need to be done before the grading or resloping work begins. You’ll also want to see if you need a permit for landscaping before the project is underway.

5. Will you need to grade or reslope your yard to improve drainage?

If you don’t know the answer to this question, defer to the professional. Not many homeowners will know the exact reasons for choosing grading or resloping.  Share any previous work done with the landscaper, and look for a pro who has experience working with foundations. You’ll also need to take into account the cost to level your property.