When building a home or other construction, proper drainage will protect the foundation and minimize the risk of structural problems in the future. There are two main types of drainage to be aware of as you excavate or clear land for the work ahead. Below, learn about the differences between positive and negative drainage and how it will impact your construction project.

Positive Drainage

Positive drainage describes a condition in which water flows down a slope and away from your home. This is accomplished through effective land grading, in which the contractor creates a gradual angle in the soil that allows gravity to naturally pull water to a lower elevation. Positive drainage is essential for keeping the foundation and basement of the structure dry and free of mold and pests. It also decreases stress on the foundation, preventing cracks and structural instability throughout the rest of the home.

If a home is constructed at a lower elevation, positive drainage can be a challenge. Your contractor may need to raise the home's foundation or install a subsurface drainage solution like slotted PVC piping or mold channels.

Negative Drainage

Negative drainage is the opposite: water flows toward the home rather than away from it due to ineffective land grading. This can lead to a variety of damaging issues, including chronically wet basements, weakening foundations, mold and mildew, and pest infestations.

This type of drainage is more common when soil erosion is present on your property. Installing a retaining wall to better contain the soil can reduce the risk of negative drainage. 

Also, if you have paved surfaces like driveways or walkways sloping downhill toward your home, negative drainage is more likely. For this reason, it's important to design the layout of your property carefully and consider the placement of all paved surfaces. If a sloped pavement toward the home is unavoidable, have your construction contractor install a subsurface drainage system for better protection and peace of mind.

When you need excavation services for your construction project, trust Victor Enterprises. For more than a decade, they have been serving the Victor, NY, area. They also provide hauling, trucking, and freight shipping for large, valuable, or dangerous materials. Call (585) 742-2232 to request a quote or arrange a consultation.