Mitigating Landscaping Water Damage Risks

Sandy Springs property owners have more control over water incursions that can cause significant damage to homes than they might realize. Although many water damage scenarios occur because of storms, flooding, appliance malfunctions, and plumbing leaks, it is not uncommon for property disasters to be linked to avoidable risks like poor landscaping decisions or malfunctioning or overused irrigation systems.

Follow Foundation Seepage to the Source

Seepage into your basement or crawl space can happen without the fanfare of torrential rain. Even if you are diligent about following tips the experts from AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs recommend concerning sound roofs, well-maintained and functioning gutters, and adequately placed downspouts, damp or flooded lower levels can occur. As you struggle to put water mitigation strategies for your Sandy Springs residence in place, would it surprise you to learn that beautiful foundation gardens or the sprinkler system that keeps your yard lush and green could be problems? Poor landscaping choices that can cause water damage include:

  • Inadequate grading around the foundation, which should slope away for at least 6 to 10 feet--keep in mind that DIY or professional digging of new beds without ensuring the preservation of previous proper grading can surprise you with seepage never before experienced.

  • Inappropriate plant spacing next to your home can direct water off foliage and onto the brick, concrete, stone, or wood materials of your foundation--think of larger bushes or small trees crowded too near the exterior that can also send roots into the foundation, taking advantage of pre-existing cracks or creating new ones.

  • If used excessively, above or below-ground sprinkler systems can supersaturate the dirt adjacent to the foundation. The sprinkler system's components are prone to leaks and misdirection of water spray.

Landscaping Water Mitigation Tips

Protecting your Sandy Springs home from water damage due to landscaping missteps can be straightforward and inexpensive when compared to water damage restoration. Here are some options that work to keep water nourishing plants rather than flooding your foundation:

  • Scrupulously follow grading recommendations around your house.

  • Avoid having plants touch your home--create a barrier with a trench 6 inches wide and deep right next to the foundation, sloping the planting bed a few inches below and away from this barrier.

  • Use drought-tolerant and native cultivars as foundation plants. They require little to no irrigation to thrive, so water is not sprayed nearby.

  • Choose high-quality sprinkler systems, whether above or inground, and inspect and maintain them constantly during use. Spray heads must be kept in good repair and directed away from the side of your buildings. Keep an eye on water bill upticks and swampy areas in your yard—these can signal cracked hoses, piping, or broken connections.

Consult AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs if you want more support or access to landscaping water mitigation resources. Call us at (404) 474-8443 with questions or if you need assessment and assistance with wet or flooded foundations.

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