Topel advised that downspouts should be extended between 4 and 6 feet away from the foundation because often the soil has settled near the foundation. She added that the recommendation is for soil. Rock and mulch in landscaping may slope away at that grade, but the soil underneath actually may slope toward the house because the dirt has settled. Topel suggested that homeowners inspect concrete or blacktopped surfaces. Driveways or sidewalks may not taper away enough from the home.
Patios can settle and crack, directing water toward the house.
Dampness in basements can be common. Homeowners should run dehumidifiers during the summer to keep moisture to a minimum. Water control systems include installing drain tiles and treating leaking cracks in basement walls. Workers inject wall cracks with urethane, a thin material that flows into the crack to make a good seal, Lawrence said. It also remains flexible to allow for shifting.