Many houses have grading issues both around the house foundations, and in the landscaping and grounds that cause a variety of damage, some obvious, and some not so obvious. This house had most of them exhibited all at one property, mostly due to neglect. Improper landscaping at the front of this house has caused the brick sidewalk you see in the next picture to settle and sink, since it helped trap water from draining away.
This could have been avoided with proper grading and landscaping.
Sloping and settling towards garage overhead door has caused this door bottom and jamb to deteriorate.
When there is inadequate drainage provided for water to run away from a house, and the lot is relatively flat, then water will accumulate in low spots in the yard, which will cause further settling and erosion (not to mention mosquitos).
If proper drainage away from a house foundation is not provided, it can cause serious damage to the foundation from erosion of the mortar joints, and leaking into the basement. Waterproofing and sump pumps become overburdened, and fail.
When gutters and downspouts are not kept clean and in working order, it allows even more water to accumulate next to the foundation of the house, which adds to the erosion, and liklihood that water will enter the basement, or cause damage to the foundation.
Grading around a house foundation should generally slope away at least at a 1 to 3% grade, so that water has a chance to escape before it tries to find a way into your basement. Landscaping that is adjacent to the house, or in close proximity, should also slope slightly away, and not allow water to become trapped between the landscaped area and the house. Adding mulch or plants close to the house should be done with care, so that the grade does not change to a negative condition. Overgrown plants, bushes, or trees that are close to the house can also cause damage and water accumulation, and should be cut back or removed entirely.
Living in a house that is 15+ years old, the grade most likely has changed or settled, and should be periodically checked for proper slope and drainage.
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