Alternative Perspectives on Foundation Grading for Basement Moisture Control

Same basement odor question. Second opinion: smell = mold/methane. Sand vs. gravel, grading specs, sump pump.

Code & Grading

• Soil ≥6 in below siding (termite path).
• 2% slope at 5 ft (⅛ in/ft = ~⅝ in drop over 5 ft).

Sand vs. Gravel

Sand drains faster but needs 6–8 ft depth to lower water table below basement floor—impractical.

Sump Pump

If no gravity outlet, interior perimeter drain + sump pump (contractor job).

Bottom Line

Gravel backfill + proper grading + gutters + waterproofing = system. Sand alone won't fix it.