The grading and drainage of property must be efficient to allow excess water to run off the property. Driveways, for example, need to be angled to a certain degree and have rocks and gravel under the pavement so water does not accumulate and crack the surface. Grading refers to the practice of determining what type of base or slope is required to ensure the ground can support any additions, such as a house, roadway, landscaping, or parking garage.
Problems with Poor Grading
The results of poor grading typically present as water infiltration into a structure. A house with poor grading adjacent to it will be susceptible to water damage. This will most likely be in the basement. Water stains, a musky smell, the presence of mold are the most common signs that are first noticed. A structure like a parking garage may have puddles forming on lower levels.
This indicates that the grading is either too flat or sloped toward the building instead of away from it. A Grading Contractor in Santa Cruz, CA needs to be called immediately to complete an inspection and determine what repairs are necessary. Severe water damage can render structures unstable and unsafe. An inspection of grading and drainage is a wise first step before planning any renovations, new landscaping designs, or the addition of hardscape projects like an outdoor kitchen or a retaining wall with built-in seating.
Selecting a Grading Contractor
Grading Contractor in Santa Cruz, CA are highly trained and skilled professionals. The most important thing to selecting a contractor is to make sure there is an understanding of what is planned for the property. Property owners need to have an idea of the weight that will added, the increase in water usage, and the depth of any digging that must be done to achieve the desired outcomes.
If a homeowner wants a few flower beds in the front yard, there will be no problem. If that same owner wants to build height in the backyard, plant trees and shrubs, and install a waterfall, some grading and drainage work will have to be done first. Select a contractor that also provides a host of property services, such as landscaping, outdoor lighting, concrete work, and hardscaping projects. An experienced company that offers full-services for residential and commercial properties, such as Watsonville Grading & Paving, Inc, will already have an understanding of what is needed for most projects.
