Grading & Landscaping
Poor grading is one of the most common causes of basement water problems. When soil slopes toward the house — even just a few inches in the wrong direction — it sends stormwater directly to the foundation. At Sump Daddy, we provide professional grading and light landscaping services to reshape your yard, redirect water, and support long-term waterproofing.
What We Do
We regrade and landscape small to medium-sized residential properties to fix:
- Negative slope against foundation walls
- Low-lying areas near downspouts and window wells
- Soil settlement around additions, decks, or patios
- Trapped water between homes on tight DC lots
- Drainage problems after renovation or hardscape changes
As part of our grading services, we may:
- Add or remove soil to establish positive slope
- Shape soil into drainage swales or gentle berms
- Install topsoil and seed or sod for lawn restoration
- Create shallow trenches for drainage pipe runs
- Rework plant beds or mulch rings around structures
- Coordinate hardscape restoration if needed (e.g., flagstone paths, edging)
We use laser levels and water testing to ensure the yard moves water away from the house — not toward it.
Grading Is Part of the Solution — Not the Only One
In many cases, grading alone isn’t enough. When water collects faster than soil can absorb it — or when access is limited — we often combine regrading with:
- French drains
- Buried downspout extensions
- Dry wells or catch basins
- Foundation waterproofing or sump pump systems
We design the solution based on your site conditions. You’ll never get a generic answer or unnecessary upsell.
Urban Yards, Narrow Side Lots, Tough Access
Many homes in DC and nearby suburbs have tight side yards, sloped alleys, or awkward drainage paths. We work in small spaces every week — using hand tools, low-impact grading methods, and trenchless techniques when needed.
Our goal is to solve the drainage issue without tearing up your whole yard.
Local Experience
We’ve reshaped yards in Trinidad, Manor Park, Chevy Chase, Adams Morgan, Langley Park, and beyond. Whether your yard needs a full regrade or just a small fix near one wall, we’ll find the balance between performance and preservation.
Free Inspections, Solution-Based Plans
Every grading project starts with a free evaluation. We’ll assess slope, water flow, and site limitations — then propose a solution that may involve regrading alone or in combination with other drainage systems. Call us today at (301) 783-0033. or email us at customerservice@sumpdaddy.com.