The long-term maintenance of slope, drainage and the landscape is crucial to avoid problems. Settling of minimally graded slopes near buildings can create reverse drainage next to foundations. Re-sculpt soil to restore drainage away from buildings. Reinstall landscaping if necessary.
The importance of maintaining drainage systems cannot be overemphasized. This includes gutters, downspouts, downspout extensions and splash blocks. Tree leaves can clog gutters and downspouts. This, in turn, can cause rainwater to overflow near foundations, a serious concern on expansive soils.
Periodically look for leaks in all sprinkler system lines, backflow devices and other connections from the building to the landscape. Immediately repair malfunctioning or broken sprinkler heads that throw water back towards a building. Be extra vigilant if a drip irrigation system was installed to water ground cover plantings near buildings.
Pay attention to watering practices near buildings. Both overwatering and underwatering can affect the integrity of a building and associated structures. These principles also apply to renovating mature landscapes on expansive soils.
Low-water ground covers
For sunny exposures
-Creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)
-Creeping penstemon (Penstemon caespitosus)
-Hardy yellow iceplant (Delosperma nubigenum)
-Lavender cotton (Santolina chamaecyparissus)
-Pink pussytoes (Antennaria rosea)
-Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum)
-Stonecrop (Sedum spurium)
-Woolly speedwell (Veronica pectinata)
For shady exposures
-Creeping grape holly (Mahonia repens)
-Dead nettle (Lamium maculatum)
-Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
-Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum)
For more information, please see fact sheet 7.236, Landscaping on expansive soils.
