Grading you should have your home properly graded to prevent water from pooling at the base of your house. Homes where the ground slopes towards the house or puddles next to the house, will have trouble with water in the basement. Typically a grading of 1 inch every foot for 4 to 5 feet away from the foundation is enough to keep water from seeping in.
Gutters and Downspouts Another important way to keep water out of your basement is to make sure you have good clean gutters and downspouts. They should keep the water from falling around the foundation or into one spot. The downspouts also should keep the water a good 5-10 feet away from the house. If all the water is pooling into one area next to the house, you will have trouble unless you extend the gutter or provide for proper drainage.
Swales In some areas, homes will also need a swale. This is an area or trench around the home for water to flow down. It can often be covered with grass or made to look like a creek bed with rocks. These are great in areas where the houses are too close together to provide proper grading.
French Drains Another option is French drains or drain pipes. They are usually perforated plastic tubing that forms an underground draining system to remove surface or ground water. They can sometimes run to length of the yard and carry water to the street.
Most basements are built with drains and sump pumps to handle water if it gets into your basement. It is important to make sure you have a working sump pump when you need it. Keeping the water out and your foundation in tact is also just as important. Controlling water on the exterior of your home is even more important. If you have any questions about your home and keeping your basement dry, please give GCW Home Inspections at (952) 297-2505. A home inspection will help you determine the problem and possible solutions.