Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Raising the Grade Around the Foundation

Well, as we attempt to respond to our draining problem around our foundation, we were informed to improve the grading by laying top soil approximately 3 to 4 inches high [and sloped downward] around the immediate perimeter of our foundation walls. Man ... that's a lot of dirt.

But my question is whether or not this will entice termites. Currently, except for two small garden areas where, yes, alas, moisture has been trapped, and we had been using eucalyptus chips as mulch in these areas, the immediate ground area against the foundation is grass. Apparently, the rain water has created small grooves [paths] as it beats down off the roof that allow too much moisture near the foundation.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

p.s. The walls are stucco over cement block.

From your description, you do not have eavestroughs and downspouts. That would solve a lot of your problem by directing the water away from your house. New soil would just get in the same condition in time. I'd invest my money there. Good luck.

Yes, gutters are next on our list, right after we do some minor fascia board repair work. The grading was also urged due to how there's always a certain amount of wind-blown rain that will escape the gutters. Any idea re: termites?

Thanks again!

I'm not an expert, but I had this same problem with my mom's house. Everytime it rained, standing water would result by the foundation in the back of the house. It would stay there for days. Placing more dirt there was not an options. I first put up gutters. That helped a little. I then dug a trench and placed in it flexible plastice drainage pipe. I strategically placed the drains around the problem areas and then sloped it to the ditch in the front yard. This was a lot of hard work, but it solved the problem. No more standing water.

Steve

If you raise the grade, don't raise it above the foundation.

How can I raise the grade without raising it above the foundation? Maybe I am not understanding exactly where the foundation ends.

HELP!!!

I believe what he means is above the wooden plate that actually divides the foundation from the house itself. The "foundation" ends at this piece of wood.

So are you saying there isn't supposed to be any top soil at ground level that's up against the above grade exterior wall about four inches and sloped downward toward the sidewalk?

Tanks!

The foundation ends before whatever siding you have. If you have a slab, you should be able to see to top edge of it below the siding and above the soil.

We don't have any siding. It's stucco covered concrete block and the stucco exceeds down into the ground. How far I don't know. We are hoping to have someone cut the stucco for us next year to be about four inches above grade level. Since the stucco already exceeds below grade, the increased risk for termites does exist. This was apparently a popular construction choice years ago, but even today, Florida homes are popping up like crazy with stucco below grade. It's insane!

Install gutters first and worry about the ground later if you still have issues.