Landscaping tips
The pretty weather is here and most people with a green thumb have already started working around their yard. Every year it is the same thing; pick up and clean up all the debris that has accumulated and then start planning the next project. Every project has a personal touch but if you are planning a project that includes landscaping, adding a patio or planting trees or shrubs; be sure the plan includes a way for the water to flow away from your home.
Some of the worst problems around a home can be created by water saturating the foundation. Water can cause the foundation to fail, cause mold inside your crawlspace or basement and create harborage for termites and other insects.
Here are some ideas to think about if you start a new project this spring
As stated earlier; the grading around your home is what controls the water flow and it does not matter what project you are planning or working on; make sure your design does not allow the water to flow towards your house, You can achieve this by adding soil to build up around your house or you can remove some soil creating a good swale to carry the water away.
Whenever you put your Lawn Sprinklers in service make sure the lines are not leaking underground causing water to pool along the foundation. Another important thing to remember about sprinklers is to adjust them properly, they should water your lawn and shrubs; not your house
Adding Mulch makes your landscaping look good and is great to help your plants by holding moisture and helping to keep unwanted weeds under control. The important thing is to use mulch for what it is designed for. Do not use mulch to fill in a low laying area that is causing water to pool along your foundation, this will only allow more water to soak in. Keeping the mulch a few inches away from the foundation is recommended but never let it pile up over your siding; this can cause wood rot and can give insects an access to your home. Termites can also use the mulch to start a colony and then move into your home.
If you are going to build a flower bed or retaining wall using landscaping timbers, stone or any building materials around your house never build it to allow soil or mulch to be above the wood framework without considering how the moisture in the soil will affect the structure and the direction of the water runoff.
Whenever you are planting trees and shrubs; another common mistake is to plant a tree or shrub too close to your home, remember they will mature and grow, so plant them in the location that will suit a full grown tree.