Grade
Definition and meaning of Grade in real estate.
Grade refers to the ground level or elevation of the soil surrounding a building's foundation. It plays a critical role in construction, landscaping, and water management, as it determines how water drains away from the structure.
In more detail
Proper grading involves sloping the ground downward away from the foundation walls to prevent water accumulation, which can cause basement flooding and structural damage. Building codes typically require a specific slope, such as a six-inch drop over the first ten feet from the house, to ensure effective drainage.
During a home inspection, the inspector evaluates the grade to check for negative grading, which occurs when the ground slopes toward the house. Correcting a poor grade can involve adding topsoil, regrading the yard, or installing French drains. Understanding the grade is essential for buyers, as poor drainage is one of the most common causes of wet basements and foundation failure.
Key facts
| Category | Property Types & Construction |
|---|---|
| Ideal Slope | Sloping downward away from the foundation at least six inches over ten feet |
| Watch out for | Negative grading, which leads to basement leaks and foundation damage |
| Who performs | Land surveyors, excavators, and landscape contractors |
Before paving a new driveway, a builder measures the grade of the lot to ensure that rainwater will flow toward the street storm drain rather than pooling near the home's crawlspace.
Frequently asked questions
What is negative grading?
Negative grading occurs when the ground slopes toward a building rather than away from it, directing rainwater and runoff toward the foundation walls.
How can you fix a poor grade around a house?
A poor grade can be corrected by adding dirt to build up the slope next to the foundation, adjusting landscaping, or installing drainage systems like swales or French drains.