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RicodJour

wrote:
Hi -

I wondered if you could suggest the best solution to a small water
problem. My soil is clay, but the area close to the house has been
cultivated and enriched with some organic material.

I have had a little water intrusion into my basement off and on for
several years in my 30-year old house. The exterior slope is slightly
toward the house and when we have had some downpours, especially when
the gutters stopped up, we got a little water in the basement.

A relative said I need a drainage system, like a gutter, right up
against the house. I did not know if that would work, am guessing there
is a better solution. I don't know if I should just try to change the
slope of the lawn in front of that wall or if I need a french drain
too. I can taper the landscape slightly down away from the wall to
about 3 and 1/2 feet from the house. If I go further than that, I'll
need to dig up some "mops." Should I try that first, then if we get
water again install the french drain at that lowest point? Do you have
another better idea?

That makes sense. Try the simpler solution first and keep those
gutters clean.

R