How to Spot Poor Grading on a New or Existing Build
- Ryan Taneja
- Nov 12
- 2 min read
What It Looks Like — and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
A beautiful new home or structure can still run into major issues if the grading wasn’t done properly. It’s one of the most important and most overlooked parts of any construction project.
At Pennington Construction & Land Solutions, we fix grading problems before they become expensive foundation issues, water damage, or failed landscaping.
Whether you’re building from scratch or living in a home that’s already showing signs of trouble, here’s how to spot bad grading—and how we can fix it right.
🚩 Signs of Poor Grading:
1. Water Pools Around the Foundation-
Water should always flow away from the structure. If it pools along the base of your home, garage, or shop, the grading is likely off.
2. Soil Slope Faces Toward the House-
Take a walk around the property. Does the land slope inward toward the building instead of away? That slope can send water directly into your crawlspace, basement, or slab.
3. Cracked or Uneven Concrete-
Improper water runoff can cause soil beneath concrete slabs to shift or erode. This often shows up as:
Cracks in driveways or walkways
Patio or slab settling
Steps pulling away from the house
4. Moss or Mold on Siding-
Persistent moisture on siding or brick (especially on the lower 1–2 feet) could mean your home isn't drying out properly because of poor grading.
5. Yard Washouts or Exposed Roots-
Soil erosion, exposed tree roots, and washed-out mulch or gravel after rain are signs that water isn’t being directed properly.
6. Standing Water in Low Spots-
If your yard turns into a marsh or a pond after a storm, grading may be too flat or improperly sloped.
🛠️ How Pennington Fixes It:
When we’re called to correct poor grading, we assess every angle of the property.
Our services include:
Regrading high and low spots to promote natural drainage
Creating positive slope away from the foundation
Installing swales, French drains, or culverts as needed
Driveway crowning and gravel replacement
Compaction of newly shaped areas to prevent settling
We work to make the fix functional AND invisible, blending it into your yard or jobsite with a clean finish.
🧠 Bonus Tip: New Construction? Check It Early.
If you're building a new home or shop, grading should happen right after land clearing and before any slab or foundation work begins. Ask your builder to show you the slope, and consider having us walk the site early on to avoid future problems.
Don’t Wait for the Cracks to Show
Grading is one of those things most people only notice once it’s already caused damage. Let’s fix the flow—and protect your investment for the long run.
📞 Call 501‑BE‑BUILT (501‑232‑8458)
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