| Grading Your Property |
|
Whether minor or major, improper grading can be a hassle for the homeowner. You may have muddy garden beds due to depressions or even severe flooding. Flooding caused by heavy precipitation, melting snow, or runoff may pose problems for all kinds of properties. Older and newer houses, residential and commercial developments may be at risk for flooding if proper precautions are not taken.
The first rule of grading is that the ground should slope away from your house in all directions so that it drops at least 2 or 3 inches for every ten feet. The finished grade should also end up matching the level of existing fixtures, such as permanent walks and patios, as well as areas of lawn that are not being replanted. |
If you will be replanting with seed and adding one inch of amendments, grade so that the level is one inch lower than fixtures. If you will be replanting with sod and adding an inch of amendments, the grade should be about two inches lower than your fixtures. Your goal is to have the finished grade--after the sod has been planted and amendments added--even with the level of your fixtures.
The proper way to re-grade is first to remove the topsoil from the problem area. Make adjustments to the subsoil by scraping away high areas and filling in low areas. Then spread two inches of the reserved topsoil over the subsoil, and till it into the first two inches of subsoil. This will help prevent drainage problems between the two layers of soil. Lastly, spread the rest of your topsoil, which should make up at least another 4 inches. If you need to add topsoil, buy a loam that's free of debris, such as roots or stones. It should also be free of weed seeds and pesticides. A landscaping rake is the best tool for working topsoil to the proper grade if you're doing it yourself.
The maximum slope in a lawn should be 12 inches for every 4 feet. If the drop is greater than 12 inches, you should plan to build a low retaining wall or cover the slope with a hardy ground cover or ornamental grass.
There are some things that you as a homeowner can do on your own. Take a walk around your property. Notice if there are any easily filled depressions, or if the entire are around the house will need re-grading. If it’s a minor job, order a delivery of fill dirt from a local construction company, landscape supply or nursery. Fill the depressions and allow to settle for a few days. After the first rain, check again to see if you need to refill.
If your problem is more extensive, it’s advisable to call an excavation contractor or Landscape company with grading experience. Trying to ‘do it yourself’ on uneven ground, with little or no experience with a tractor spells trouble and possible injury. The job may require installation of drain tile as well and that can be a job in itself. Save yourself the hassle and let a professional do the dirty work.
Good Luck and Happy Gardening |
