Lot Drainage & Grading
January 23, 2026
When you’re deciding on a homesite, it’s easy to focus on what you can see, like the view, trees, and how the lot feels from the street. But a home is only as good as its foundation, and what’s beneath the surface is just as important. Drainage and grading will have an impact on how your home sits on the lot, how water moves after it rains, and how stable your overall ground and foundation will be. Understanding slope and soil types can help you avoid water-related problems in the future.
Why Grading Matters
The grade of a lot refers to how the land is shaped, so that water drains away from your home rather than toward it. Proper grading helps prevent standing water near the foundation and reduces the risk of moisture problems in basements or crawlspaces. Even lots that look flat can drain poorly if they lack enough slope, usually about 6 inches over the first 10 feet from the foundation, to direct water away effectively.
How Slope Impacts the Build
Slope simply refers to how much the lot rises or falls across the property. While flat lots may require less excavation, they still need a proper grading plan to avoid pooling. Gently sloped lots are often the most ideal because they naturally promote better drainage and can offer some flexibility in home design. Steep lots can be a fantastic choice for walk-out basements or added privacy, but they generally need more planning and more grading work to manage water properly.
Soil Types
Slope determines how water will move across the surface, but the soil type decides what happens with that water once it hits the ground. Sandy soil drains quickly, while clay soils hold water longer and can create soggy yards or water pressure near the foundation. During construction, homeowners can install perforated pipe or tile drainage systems to manage water flow, particularly in areas where water collects. Much of Northeast Indiana has heavy, compactable clay, but every lot should be evaluated for drainage and stability before building starts.
Protecting your Investment
Poor drainage can lead to more problems than just puddles. It can cause damp basements, foundation stress, driveway cracking, and landscaping problems over time. Selecting a lot with the right slope, soil conditions, and drainage plan helps protect your home, your yard, and long-term value.
At Oakmont Development, we design and develop lots with proper grading and slope already in place, so your home starts with a solid foundation and drains as it should from day one.