Regrading for Better Drainage
Often covered by your vibrant lawn and impressive hardscaping features, land grading is an essential first step in construction and landscaping projects. It can mean the difference between a durable, long-lasting outdoor space and one that washes away during the next heavy storm, taking your investment along with it.
However, grading is not always a one-time event, and regrading may be necessary to correct drainage problems. Whether you need initial grading or regrading for better drainage, Keystone Improvements is dedicated to excellence, making us the perfect partner for your landscaping projects in Central Florida and the Gulf Coast.
How Regrading Improves Drainage
Regrading is the process of re-adjusting the slope of your land to ensure water flows away from your driveway, walkways, or other areas. Our specialists create a gentle slope that directs rainwater towards designated drainage areas, such as storm drains or swales, preventing it from pooling or seeping into unwanted areas of your property.
When is Regrading Necessary?
Regrading is typically necessary when the original grade has been compromised or wasn’t done correctly. You may need regrading if:
- Erosion: Heavy rain can wash away topsoil, changing the slope and causing uneven terrain.
- New construction: Adding a new patio, driveway, or pool deck can unintentionally block or change the path of water flow.
- Ground settling: The natural settling of soil can lead to low spots or depressions where water collects.
- Poor drainage: If you see standing water near your foundation or hardscaping long after a rain event, the grade is incorrect and needs to be regraded.
Land Regrading Benefits
Correcting your property's grading offers long-term protection and value:
- Foundation Protection: This is the most vital benefit. By ensuring water moves away from your home, patio, or other structures, you mitigate the risk of expensive foundation cracks and structural damage.
- Eliminates Standing Water: Regrading prevents puddles and standing water, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and protecting your lawn from root rot and disease.
- Preserves Hardscaping: A correct slope prevents water from washing out the base materials beneath pavers or concrete, ensuring your driveway, patios, and walkways remain stable and level.
- Mitigates Soil Erosion: By controlling the speed and direction of water runoff, regrading keeps your valuable topsoil and landscape materials in place.
Signs Your Property Needs Regrading
Watch for these indicators that your property needs regrading:
- Crawl Space Leaks: Water entering lower levels of your landscape is a definitive sign of poor exterior drainage.
- Visible Water Pooling: Puddles remain in your yard or near your hardscaping for hours after a rainstorm.
- Exposed Roots or Foundation: Signs of significant soil erosion where grass or soil is washing away, exposing tree roots or the concrete foundation slab.
- Sinking Hardscape Features: Paver driveways or patios that have begun to sink, crack, or shift unevenly are often suffering from a compromised or poorly graded base.
Our Other Services
Keystone Improvements is your full-service softscape and hardscape partner in Central Florida, offering a comprehensive suite of services to enhance your outdoor space from the front yard to the backyard.
