Before the excavating can start on your property, it’s essential to have a drainage plan in place. How the land is sloped will affect the way runoff flows over it. Both positive and negative drainage will help to safely discharge excess moisture, but the developer must calculate where these paths are placed. This guide will further explain when each one is used and what could go wrong if they are not installed correctly.

Positive Drainage

When excavating and preparing the land, the property developer must test the soil to properly prepare for how it will react when saturated. They can then determine how to grade the site, so runoff will be directed safely away from the building and to a nearby sewer or wastewater outlet.

Positive drainage involves grading the land adjacent to the building’s prospective foundation to a peak. The slope then gradually declines to a lower elevation the further you travel from the property, preventing runoff from collecting next to the business or home when it rains.

Negative Drainage

Having a clear layout of the land is essential or it’s possible to create negative drainage. When this is the case, runoff flows toward the future buildings. This might be from the placement of an additional structure on the property or landscaping that wasn’t considered in the initial design stages.

Rain isn’t your only consideration. Expansive soil, which consists largely of clay minerals and other materials that contract and are hard when dry and drastically swell when wet, can also impact how moisture collects and flows. The contractor will have to know all of these details to properly excavate and grade the land in a thought-out path that directs water and prevents moisture collection around and under the buildings.

For quality excavating services, turn to Musson Brothers. For over 75 years, this contractor has provided Rhinelander, WI, with site development, lot clearing, septic, and aggregate services. They are committed to maintaining an open and honest relationship with all clients. Call them today at (715) 365-8700 to discuss your excavation needs and visit their website to learn more about their products and services.