
Proper grading is one of the most important factors in protecting a home’s foundation. On this project in Winnetka, IL, several grading conditions were identified that allowed water to remain closer to the foundation than intended. The goal was to improve drainage around multiple sides of the property and establish a more effective path for water to move away from the home.
Project Goals
- Improve grading around the home’s foundation.
- Create positive drainage away from the structure.
- Correct elevation issues that could contribute to water accumulation.
- Improve overall water management throughout the property.
- Enhance the appearance and functionality of the landscape.
- Grading Corrections and Soil Installation
Multiple areas around the property were adjusted to improve drainage and establish proper water flow patterns.
Work completed included:
- Soil installation and regrading around the AC unit area.
- Soil installation and grading improvements around the generator area.
- Regrading on both sides of the patio entrance.
- Grading corrections along the east side of the home.
- Additional soil installation near the foundation where needed.
- Creation of consistent positive drainage throughout the property.
- Lawn Regrading and Sod Restoration
A section of lawn approximately 6 feet by 40 feet contained a high spot that was limiting proper drainage.
Improvements included:
- Removal of the existing lawn section.
- Regrading to eliminate the high spot.
- Soil installation to establish proper elevations.
- Restoration with new sod.
- Improved surface water movement across the lawn.
- Why Positive Drainage Matters
Creating positive drainage around a home requires more than simply adding soil. Successful drainage depends on multiple grading elements working together.
Key components include:
- Proper soil elevations around the foundation.
- Consistent drainage slopes away from the home.
- Removal of high spots that restrict water flow.
- Foundation clearances that help prevent moisture issues.
- Long-term water management planning.
By correcting elevations, adding soil where necessary, and improving drainage patterns throughout the property, this project created a grading system designed to perform effectively during heavy rainfall and everyday weather conditions.
Project Highlights
- Foundation grading corrections.
- Soil installation and regrading.
- Positive drainage improvements.
- Lawn elevation adjustments.
- Sod restoration and lawn repair.
- Surface water management solutions.
- Foundation protection improvements.
- Residential grading and drainage services.
As you browse through the photos, you’ll see the grading corrections, soil installation, lawn restoration, and drainage improvements that helped create a more effective water management system around the property.
Please call 847.698.6868 or Contact Us
Tommy Pollina Landscape Company – serving Chicagoland since 1982.
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