Winter is upon us and it is important to maintain good drainage control on your property. Good drainage control can reduce the risk of earth movement and slope instability that can cause damage that is very expensive to repair.
Simple measures such as roof gutters, paved surfaces and area drains can be implemented to collect and direct site water out to the street or suitable drainage channel. Drainage channels should be maintained free of debris and vegetation. It is important to patch any cracks in paved surfaces to help minimize infiltration. Water should not be allowed to pond on the building area or adjacent to any foundation or wall. Site water should not flow over any descending slope. Any leaking sprinkler lines or utility lines should be repaired. Make sure that sprinklers are not allowed to operate during rainfall and watering times should be reduced during the winter. Burrowing rodents such as gophers and ground squirrels can increase the risk of instability and they should be eliminated. An engineering geologist should be hired to view your property and provide specific advice for your site.