Roof & exterior
Keep surface water moving away from the home
Settled soil, short downspouts and altered landscaping can redirect water toward the foundation long after a home was built.
Recommended timingEvery spring and after major landscaping work
What to do
- Walk the perimeter after snowmelt and during or just after rain, staying on safe surfaces, to identify ponding and flow toward the home.
- Maintain positive drainage away from the foundation and keep soil below siding, trim, weep openings and other required clearances.
- Keep window wells free of leaves and equipped with drainage or covers appropriate to their design; never block an emergency-egress window.
- Confirm downspouts, sump discharge and landscape drains release water to an approved location without washing soil away.
- Have a drainage, foundation or landscape professional design corrections where regrading could affect neighboring property, retaining walls, utilities or required clearances.
Official guidance and sources
Product instructions and local requirements take priority for the equipment or material installed at your home.