Late-Summer Grading: Prep Your Yard for Fall’s Heavy Rains

Paul Rote • August 15, 2025

Protect your property, prevent flooding, and set your landscape up for success before autumn arrives.

Why Late Summer Is the Ideal Time for Grading

In Wisconsin, late summer is more than just warm evenings and backyard barbecues—it’s the last window to prepare your yard for the heavy rains of fall. Grading your property in August ensures that water flows away from your home’s foundation, reducing the risk of basement leaks, soil erosion, and damage to landscaping investments.



The Importance of Proper Grading

Poor grading can lead to costly and frustrating issues, including:

  • Basement Flooding – Water pooling near your foundation can find its way inside.
  • Soil Erosion – Uneven runoff can strip away nutrient-rich topsoil and damage plantings.
  • Foundation Damage – Persistent moisture weakens concrete and can cause cracks.
  • Standing Water Hazards – These become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests.


How Rote’s Approaches Grading Projects

Our grading process is designed to be efficient, effective, and long-lasting:

  1. Site Evaluation – We inspect slopes, drainage patterns, and problem areas.
  2. Customized Plan – Tailored solutions for your specific property layout.
  3. Precision Workmanship – Using professional equipment to achieve accurate slopes.
  4. Integration with Landscaping – We make sure grading supports plant health, hardscapes, and aesthetics.


Bonus: Waterproofing for Double Protection

While grading is your first line of defense against water intrusion, pairing it with targeted waterproofing offers unbeatable protection. This might include French drains, sump pump optimization, or basement sealants—all services we can handle in one project.


Act Before the Rain Starts

Once fall arrives, it’s often too late to make significant grading changes without working in muddy, unstable conditions. By scheduling now, you ensure your home is ready before the first big storm.

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