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?
Thank you, Gary