Protecting your home’s foundation isn’t just about reacting to water in the basement or cracks in the walls. It’s about taking proactive steps—starting with something as fundamental as grading. As a local leader in drainage and grading solutions, we at Van Matre Construction have seen firsthand how the right grading protects homes across Denver, Boulder, Lafayette, Broomfield, Arvada, Louisville, and Westminster. In this guide, we’ll share the science, best practices, and unique local insights you need to keep your foundation strong for years to come.
Why Grading Matters for Foundation Protection
Let’s get right to the heart of the matter: Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of your property’s foundation. If you’ve ever dealt with a damp basement or seen cracks creeping along your foundation, you know how stressful it can be. But here’s the good news—most of these headaches are preventable with proper grading.
“The single most important thing a person can do to improve the health of their foundation, thereby avoiding a wet basement, is to keep water away from the foundation in the first place.”
— Van Matre Construction Leadership
When your yard slopes toward your home, water pools against the foundation, leading to hydrostatic pressure, cracks, mold, and—over time—structural instability. Proper grading, on the other hand, ensures water flows safely away, protecting your investment and your peace of mind.
Understanding the Science: How Water and Soil Impact Your Foundation
Colorado’s Front Range isn’t like everywhere else. Our region is famous for its expansive clay soils—those that swell when wet and shrink when dry. This natural movement can wreak havoc on foundations, especially when combined with freeze-thaw cycles and sudden downpours.
- Expansive Soils: In areas like Boulder and Denver, the soil can literally push against your foundation as it expands with moisture.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water that seeps in and freezes can cause cracks and shifts.
- Heavy Rains & Snowmelt: Sudden influxes of water test your grading and drainage systems.
Local insight:
A gentle, consistent slope—about 6 inches over the first 10 feet from your foundation—lets gravity do the work. When that’s paired with proper drainage and waterproofing, your home stands strong against the elements.
Signs Your Property Needs Grading or Drainage Improvements
Not sure if you need to regrade your yard or update your drainage? Here are the red flags we see most often:
- Water pooling near the foundation after rain or snowmelt
- Damp or musty smells in the basement or crawl space
- Visible cracks in foundation walls or floors
- Soil erosion or bare patches near the house
- Mold or mildew growth
- Increased pest activity (ants, termites, etc.)
Real-world story:
One of our clients in Lafayette called us after noticing persistent dampness in their basement. They’d tried everything—dehumidifiers, patching cracks, even new gutters—but the problem persisted. After a thorough inspection, we found the yard actually sloped toward the home. With a targeted regrading and drainage solution, the basement stayed dry for the first time in years.
Pro tip:
Check your property after heavy rain. If you see standing water near your foundation, it’s time to act.
Best Practices for Grading Around Your Home
Assessing Your Current Grade
Before you grab a shovel, you need to know what you’re working with. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Walk the perimeter: Look for low spots or areas where water pools.
- Mark high and low points: Use stakes and string, or a laser level, to measure slope.
- Ideal slope: Aim for a 6-inch drop over 10 feet (about a 5% slope) away from the foundation.
- Check for obstacles: Basement windows, utility lines, and landscaping features may need special attention.
Step-by-Step Grading Process
- Mark problem areas with spray paint or flags.
- Add soil near the foundation, tapering it outward. Use a dense, compactable soil (like clay) as the base, topped with more fertile soil for grass growth.
- Compact soil in layers using a tamper or roller to prevent settling.
- Test drainage by spraying water near the foundation—watch that it flows away, not back.
- Finish with vegetative cover: Grass seed, sod, or mulch helps prevent erosion and stabilize the new grade.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Sloping soil toward the foundation
- Not compacting soil, which leads to future settling
- Ignoring local soil types or overfilling against siding/windows
- Underestimating the complexity—sometimes, a professional touch makes all the difference
Advanced Drainage Solutions for Lasting Foundation Protection
French Drains, Surface Drains, and More
Sometimes, grading alone isn’t enough—especially in tight spaces or challenging landscapes. That’s where advanced drainage solutions come in.
- French Drains: Perforated pipes buried in gravel trenches to redirect water away from trouble spots.
- Surface Drains & Swales: Channels or shallow ditches that move water across your property.
- Gutters & Downspouts: Ensure these extend at least 6 feet from your foundation to prevent water from pooling.
- Sump Pumps: For properties with persistent water issues, a sump pump can be a game-changer.
When to use:
If you still see pooling water after grading, or if your property is on a slope, these solutions can provide the extra protection your foundation needs.
Foundation Waterproofing Options
- Exterior Waterproofing: Applying membranes, sealants, or coatings to the outside of the foundation wall.
- Interior Waterproofing: Drainage channels and sealants are applied from inside the basement.
- Materials: We use only the highest-quality membranes and sealants, selected for durability and performance in Colorado’s unique climate.
Our approach:
“We use only the highest quality materials and equipment to ensure that your basement is properly waterproofed with concrete foundation waterproofing in the Denver area.”
— Van Matre Construction Leadership
Local Insights: Grading & Drainage Challenges in Denver & Surrounding Areas
Every region has its quirks, and Colorado’s Front Range is no exception. Here’s what makes grading here unique:
- Soil: Expansive clay is common, especially in Boulder and Denver.
- Weather: Rapid freeze-thaw cycles and heavy, sudden rainstorms.
- Regulations: Some cities require permits for major grading or drainage work.
- Neighborhoods: Older homes may have outdated grading, while newer developments can have unique drainage challenges.
Local expertise:
Our team’s been serving this community for over 20 years. We know the ins and outs of local regulations, and we’ve seen every soil and drainage scenario you can imagine.
Case study:
In Broomfield, we helped a homeowner whose backyard sloped toward their house, causing seasonal flooding. By regrading and installing a French drain, we not only solved the problem but also increased the property’s value and curb appeal.
Choosing the Right Grading & Drainage Contractor
Not all contractors are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
- Licensing & insurance: Always verify credentials.
- Experience: Look for a proven track record in your area.
- Customer reviews: Reputation matters—ask for references or read testimonials.
- Warranties & guarantees: Make sure your investment is protected.
- Communication: A good contractor explains your options and keeps you informed.
Why choose Van Matre Construction?
With over 20 years of experience, a commitment to quality, and deep local roots, we treat every project as if it were our own home. Our clients say it best:
“Our team of experts has over 20 years of experience in the industry and is dedicated to providing top-notch service to our clients.”
— Van Matre Construction Leadership
Van Matre Construction’s Approach: Our Proven Process
We believe every home—and every homeowner—is unique. Here’s how we approach every grading and drainage project:
- Assessment: We start with a thorough inspection, identifying problem areas and listening to your concerns.
- Personalized plan: We design a solution tailored to your property, soil, and goals.
- Quality materials: Only the best products, proven for Colorado conditions.
- Expert installation: Our skilled team handles every detail, from grading to drainage and waterproofing.
- Ongoing support: We’re here for you long after the job is done, answering questions and providing maintenance tips.
Our promise:
You’ll never feel like just another project. We pride ourselves on communication, integrity, and results you can see and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Look for water pooling, damp basements, or cracks in your foundation—especially after rain or snowmelt.
Take Action: Protect Your Foundation Today
Don’t wait until you see cracks or water in your basement. The best time to protect your foundation is now. Contact Van Matre Construction today for a free assessment and personalized grading and drainage plan.
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Your home is your most important investment—let’s keep it safe, dry, and standing strong for years to come.
Internal Resources & Next Steps
- Drainage and Grading Services Pillar Page
- [Foundation Repair](#)
- [Waterproofing Solutions](#)
- [Crawl Space Encapsulation](#)
Download our free Homeowner’s Grading Checklist or subscribe to our newsletter for ongoing tips and local insights.
Final Thoughts
At Van Matre Construction, we believe in doing things right the first time. We’re not just contractors—we’re your neighbors, your partners, and your advocates for a safe, healthy home. If you have questions or want to learn more about how grading can protect your foundation, reach out. We’re here to help, every step of the way.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today and experience the Van Matre difference.
This article was created to provide the most comprehensive, locally relevant, and client-personalized resource available. For more information or to schedule your free assessment, get in touch with our expert team at Van Matre Construction.
