The Two-Pronged Approach to a Dry Basement

When it comes to basement waterproofing, many homeowners only think about what’s happening inside—sump pumps, drain tile systems, or sealants. But the real battle against water starts outside your home. At Rote’s Landscaping and Waterproofing, we specialize in a two-pronged defense that’s as strategic as it is effective: landscape grading and concrete curbing. Together, these solutions form a powerful system that keeps water where it belongs—away from your foundation.

Why Water Finds Its Way In

In many homes, water doesn’t rush in—it seeps. Over time, improper grading, compacted soil, or deteriorating curbs can allow rainwater and snowmelt to migrate toward your foundation. Once that water reaches your basement walls, it exploits even the smallest cracks or weaknesses. The result? Damp walls, musty smells, and even structural issues if left unchecked.

That’s why managing surface water is absolutely critical—and where our dual approach shines.

Landscape Grading: Redirect the Flow

Proper grading is your first line of defense. It involves shaping the ground around your home so water naturally flows away from the foundation. Without it, water pools at your footing, putting constant pressure on your basement walls.

At Rote’s, we don’t just "eyeball it." We use proven grading techniques to create positive slope away from your structure. This ensures that rainfall, snowmelt, and gutter runoff are carried safely into the yard or drainage system—not into your basement.

Key Benefits of Proper Grading:

• Diverts water before it reaches your home
• Prevents erosion and soil settlement
• Reduces hydrostatic pressure on basement walls
• Enhances yard drainage and landscape health

Concrete Curbing: Strength with Precision

Grading is only part of the equation. Without well-defined boundaries, water can still find low spots and reverse course. That’s where concrete curbing comes in.

Concrete curbing serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. It creates a hard edge that channels water effectively along a desired path—whether toward a swale, drain, or lower elevation. It also protects landscaped areas from soil washout and adds curb appeal.

Why It Works So Well with Grading:

• Reinforces the intended water flow path
• Prevents mulch and soil from spilling into drainage areas
• Creates long-term structure that won’t shift like plastic or stone edging
• Adds a clean, professional finish to your property

The Synergy: Better Together

Separately, grading and curbing offer benefits. But together, they create a cohesive water management system around your home.

Think of grading as the directional strategy and concrete curbing as the physical enforcement. One shapes the terrain; the other locks it in. This synergy is especially powerful in Eastern Iowa, where fluctuating weather and clay-heavy soils can challenge even the best-built homes.

At Rote’s, we don’t treat landscape and waterproofing as separate jobs—they’re integrated disciplines that work best in tandem.

Protect What Matters Most

A dry basement is more than just a comfort—it protects your home’s value, prevents costly damage, and supports a healthy living environment. Whether you're seeing early signs of moisture or simply want to get ahead of the problem, our two-pronged approach is proactive, proven, and permanent.