06 Nov Understand the Grade of Your House
When it comes to home maintenance and improvements, the “grade” of your house is an essential yet often overlooked factor. But understanding it can be key to protecting your property and enhancing its safety, especially if you’re considering additions like high-quality window wells. Here, we’ll walk you through what the grade of your house means, why it’s important, and how EHS Sales’ adaptable window wells can help you manage it effectively.
What Does the Grade of Your House Mean?
The grade of your house refers to the slope or level of the ground around your home. Ideally, the land should slope away from the foundation to ensure that rainwater or melting snow drains away from your house. This prevents water from pooling around the foundation, which can lead to issues such as basement leaks, mold growth, and even structural damage.
Why the Grade Is Important for Your Home
Water Management: A proper grade keeps water flowing away from your home, reducing the risk of basement flooding and water damage.
Foundation Protection: Poor grading can cause water to seep into cracks and weaken the structure over time.
Landscaping Benefits: Good grading allows you to maintain a healthy yard without worrying about water-logging, which can harm plants and affect soil quality.
Resale Value: A well-graded property is more attractive to potential buyers, as it signals a well-maintained and water-protected home.
How to Check Your Home’s Grade
Start by inspecting the area around your house. A positive grade means the land slopes away from the foundation, while a negative grade slopes toward it. You can use a long level or even measure the slope with a basic DIY method: place a 2×4 on the ground extending from the foundation and use a level to check the angle. For a safe grade, you should have a drop of about 1 inch per foot for at least the first 6 to 10 feet away from your house.
Enhancing Home Safety with EHS Window Wells
For homes with basement windows, high-quality window wells are essential. Not only do they provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration, but they also allow for more natural light and an emergency escape route. However, understanding how your house’s grade affects these installations is crucial.
Adapting to Your Home’s Grade with EHS Window Wells
With EHS window wells, you have the flexibility to build them higher, adapting the installation to match your house’s specific grade. This adaptability means you can reinforce protection against water pooling, even if your house has uneven terrain or areas prone to water accumulation. By elevating your window wells to meet the needs of your property’s grade, you create a seamless barrier that keeps water away while maintaining the appearance and function of your basement.
The EHS Advantage
EHS window wells are crafted with durability and practicality in mind. Here’s what sets them apart:
High Quality and Longevity: Made from strong, weather-resistant materials that stand up to harsh conditions.
Adjustability: Customize the height to suit your home’s grade, ensuring you get the most protection possible.
Aesthetic Appeal: Available in various styles that blend well with your home’s exterior design.
With the right tools and products, maintaining a safe and effective grade around your home becomes simpler. EHS Sales’ high-quality window wells provide you with the confidence to adapt and protect your home, ensuring that your basement stays dry and damage-free.
Read our recent blog post “5 Compelling Reasons to Install Window Wells for Your Basement“.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the grade of your house and taking appropriate measures can significantly impact your home’s overall health. When you’re equipped with adaptable solutions like EHS window wells, you’re investing in both the protection and long-term value of your property.
Ready to learn more about our window wells or other products? Contact EHS Sales today to discuss the perfect fit for your home needs.
BONUS: Learn more about Grade here.
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