How should the ground immediately adjacent to the foundation be sloped away from the building?

The recommended slope for ground adjacent to a foundation is critical for effective drainage. A slope of not less than 1 in 12 means that for every 12 horizontal units, the ground should drop at least 1 vertical unit. This gentle slope efficiently directs water away from the foundation, helping to prevent moisture accumulation and potential water damage to the structure.

Too steep of a slope can create problems such as erosion or rapid drainage that might not be effectively managed, leading to runoff issues elsewhere on the property. Conversely, a flatter slope may not adequately divert water, increasing the risk of water pooling near the foundation and promoting long-term structural problems.

The 1 in 12 slope is a widely accepted standard in construction and is designed to balance effective drainage with a manageable gradient that reduces soil erosion and runoff issues. Understanding this standard is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the foundation and the overall stability of the building.