Generally you would use more dirt. Normal soil that can grow good grass will work for the slope you need around the foundation. The idea is that the water falling on the area around the foundation runs away from the house instead of soaking into the ground. Or at least faster than the speed the water soaks into the ground. Lots of sand in the soil speeds the soaking in. More clay in the soil slows the soaking in. If the soil has too much sand or clay it won't grow much grass. The slope has to extend a couple of feet outside the basement excavation.
JdN
Posts: 7436 | Location: Elkader, IA, USA | Registered: Mar 07, 2004
This also doesn't take as much of an elevated grade as you might think. I solved a leaky basement problem this passes spring by only elevating the soil about 6 inches next to the foundation and extending the added soil out about 2 feet away from the house. Worked like a charm and you should see the grass I have growing on it now!
