What’s Under Your Yard Might Be Hurting Your Home

Introduction

You keep fixing the same patio stones. Your lawn feels soggy even after a few dry days. Or maybe you've noticed a new crack in the basement wall. These small issues might seem cosmetic, but they could be signs of something deeper. Soil movement, poor grading, and drainage problems often go unnoticed until real damage starts to show.

In homes across St. Thomas and Elgin County, we see these same issues caused by what’s happening below the surface. Here’s what to look for.

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1. Standing Water is a Sign of Poor Grading

If water pools in your yard or stays soggy for days, your property may be graded improperly. Water should move away from your foundation, not sit against it. Without the right slope and drainage, excess moisture can seep into basements or damage landscaping.

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2. Hardscaping That Shifts or Settles

Driveways, walkways, and patios that shift year after year often point to an unstable base. If the ground beneath wasn’t excavated and compacted properly, it’s going to move. Freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and settling will keep causing surface problems until the base is corrected.

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3. Cracks Can Start From Below

Not all cracks in your foundation mean big trouble, but some definitely do. If soil expands from moisture buildup or contracts during dry spells, it puts pressure on your foundation walls. Excavation and grading can help relieve that pressure and protect your structure.

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4. Settling Structures Are a Warning Sign

If your deck, fence, or shed is starting to lean or sink, it may not have been built on properly prepped ground. Excavation services help stabilize the soil beneath and prevent future movement, especially for structures built close to the home.

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Final Thought

If your yard or foundation is showing signs of stress, the issue might be below the surface. Excavation doesn’t just move dirt. It corrects problems at the source.