Exterior water control seems to be the most neglected area of home maintenance.  Any water that collects next to the house may end up in the house at some point in time. 

Here are a few helpful hints for prevention of water problems:

  • Do a thorough exterior examination of the house - preferably when it is raining.
  • Look up - check the gutters for holes and proper alignment with the roof - make sure the gutters are not bent/sag and that they tilt down toward the downspout.
  • Look down at the ground under the gutter - is there a line in the grass or no grass at all?
  • Gutters may be overflowing with the water thus collecting along the foundation - gutters should be cleaned at least once a year.
  • Check the downspout connections and look for good water run off.
  • Check around electrical boxes, underground service cables and compressor units - the grading often settles there creating a depression.
  • The slant of the dirt should always be away from the house.
  • Mulch makes a garden look pretty but holds moisture.
  • If you have evidence of moisture in your basement, you may want to contact a surface water control expert.