Proper Lot Grading in Phoenix

Proper Lot Grading in Phoenix

Choosing a property with the right grading is crucial for many reasons, including drainage. In this article, we'll examine why it's so important to choose the proper grading for your Phoenix lot. Plus, we'll talk about how excess water can affect your foundation. Read on to learn more. To start, you'll need to determine which type of lot you'll be purchasing. This may be easier said than done, but it's a crucial decision.

Why is it important to have proper grading?

Lot grading is crucial to ensure a safe road and home. Without proper grading, water can pool in the road, making it dangerous for drivers to use. Proper grading also helps prevent water from pooling in other areas, such as driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and up against your foundation. Proper lot grading ensures these features are safe and prevents future problems. To ensure proper lot grading, follow these tips.

The grading plan ensures water flows away from the foundation of the home, into the storm drain system, and away from the surrounding property. Improper lot grading can lead to flooding, hydrostatic pressure, and erosion of soil. If not done properly, a poorly graded lot may cause damage to the foundation and neighboring properties. In addition, improper lot grading can make the building owner liable for any damages resulting from flooding.

Drainage

In Arizona, drainage is critical when grading a lot. The average annual rainfall in Phoenix is eight to ten inches, and monsoon storms can result in mini ponds. The excess moisture will cause the soil around a home's foundation to wash away. Creating adequate drainage is essential, but homeowners must also be vigilant about the contractor they hire. Several tips should be followed to avoid costly drainage issues.

First, be aware of any existing drainage easements on the property. These must be identified on the preliminary plat and the improvement plan. The drainage report must also identify Section 404 areas and provide narrative discussions on permit holder identification and jurisdictional designations. Lastly, ensure that the drainage report is prepared for all property types. In Arizona, a drainage report must be prepared for any property. This is necessary to meet the Town's zoning regulations.

How excess water affects foundations

The City of Phoenix receives about eight to ten inches of rainfall a year, with monsoon storms bringing flooding and mini-ponds. Excess moisture in the ground can affect the foundations of homes by washing away soil, resulting in a sinking concrete driveway or walk. Then, excessive moisture can build up beneath the foundation, which is why proper drainage is crucial to protect your home from leakage. Excessive water can also cause the steel elements of your foundation to rust, which cracks and destabilizes your foundation.