Why Your Yard's Height Matters: Fixing an 8-Inch Grade Problem in Columbus
Double B Excavations & Grade LLC
Transforming Problem Yards in Columbus
GRADING AND HYDROSEEDING MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
When you look at your yard, you might not think much about its height compared to your concrete surfaces.
But let me tell you - those height differences can cause big problems.
We just tackled a project in Columbus where the yard sat eight inches higher than the concrete.
That's not just a small bump - it's a recipe for ongoing drainage issues and maintenance headaches.
At Double B, we see these problems all the time.
Homeowners struggling with yards that are tough to maintain, dealing with water issues they can't quite figure out, or just tired of their property not looking its best.
Today, I want to walk you through how we fixed this Columbus property, and why getting your yard's grade right matters more than you might think.
Welcome to Double B!
Understanding the Problem
Let's talk about what we found in Columbus. The yard was what we call "ruddy" - that's our way of saying it was uneven, hard to maintain, and just not working the way it should. When your yard sits eight inches higher than your concrete surfaces, you're dealing with more than just an awkward look. Every time it rains, that water wants to run toward your concrete - and sometimes, toward your foundation.
Think about trying to mow a yard like this. You're either scalping the high spots or leaving the low spots untouched. Plus, that severe grade change creates spots where water pools instead of draining properly. In this Columbus project, we could see right away that the rocky soil wasn't helping either. All these issues compound over time, making your yard harder and more expensive to maintain.
The thing about grade problems is they don't fix themselves - they usually get worse. That extra height puts pressure on your concrete surfaces, can affect your foundation over time, and makes simple yard maintenance feel like an uphill battle. But with the right approach, we can turn these challenges around.
The Solution Process
First things first - we needed good access to get this job done right. That meant taking down a section of fence. Now, some contractors might try to work around it, but we know from experience that doing the job right means giving ourselves proper access to the whole area.
The Harley rake is our go-to tool for jobs like this. If you've never seen one in action, think of it as a precision grading tool that can handle tough ground while separating rocks and debris from good soil. It's not just about moving dirt around - it's about preparing the ground properly for what comes next.
One detail that shows why experience matters: we found a cleanout pipe in the work area. Instead of just working around it and hoping for the best, we placed a protective block there to prevent any damage. It's these small details that make a big difference in the long run.
Building it Back Better
Here's something most people don't realize - not all soil is created equal. The existing ground was mostly rock, which is exactly why we're bringing in fresh topsoil. Good topsoil isn't just dirt - it's the foundation for a healthy lawn. It holds the right amount of moisture, provides nutrients for grass growth, and helps establish proper drainage.
When we're leveling everything out, we're not just eyeballing it. We're making sure water will flow away from structures, creating subtle grades that look natural but serve a real purpose. This attention to detail is why we choose to finish with hydroseeding. Unlike throwing down some seed and hoping for the best, hydroseeding gives us even coverage and better germination rates. The mixture includes everything your new grass needs to establish strong roots and grow thick and healthy.
You might wonder why we go through all these steps instead of just throwing down some soil and seed. But think about it - if you're going to invest in fixing your yard, doesn't it make sense to do it in a way that's going to last?
Why These Details Matter
Let me tell you why going through all these steps really pays off. When we're done with a project like this Columbus yard, the homeowner isn't just getting a level yard - they're getting peace of mind. No more fighting with the lawnmower over uneven ground. No more watching water pool up where it shouldn't. No more worrying about drainage issues causing problems down the road.
Think about what this means long-term. A properly graded yard with good soil and established grass actually saves you money. You're not constantly reseeding bare patches or paying someone to fix drainage issues. Your mower lasts longer because it's not battling rough terrain. And let's be honest - a well-maintained yard that's easy to take care of adds real value to your property.
Looking at the finished project in Columbus, it's amazing what a difference proper grading makes. We took a yard that was causing headaches and turned it into something the homeowner can actually enjoy. The grass will come in thick and healthy thanks to the hydroseeding, and maintenance will be straightforward from here on out.
Wrapping it Up
If you're dealing with an uneven yard, take a good look at how it meets your concrete surfaces. Is there a significant height difference? Do you see areas where water collects? These are signs that you might have grading issues that need attention.
Remember, fixing grade problems isn't just about appearances - it's about protecting your property and making your outdoor space more usable.
Whether you're in Columbus or anywhere in central Ohio, we're always happy to take a look and give you honest feedback about what your yard needs.
Because at Double B, we believe in fixing problems at their source, not just covering them up.
