Part 4/11:
Structural and Drainage Improvements
A priority is the foundation and drainage system. He plans to dig a ditch along the foundation to install a French drain, aiming to prevent flooding during heavy rains. Although the current guttering system is in place, he intends to build a structure for better attachment and consider screening off mud dauber nests with hardware cloth, then painting it black to enhance aesthetics.
Addressing water runoff issues, the homeowner discusses sealing the foundation’s base with flashing or concrete barriers to prevent floodwaters from seeping into his old laundry-room-turned-outbuilding. This auxiliary space, built without poured concrete on top of the existing foundation, needs reinforcement to protect against water damage, especially during storms.