How Much Should A Patio Slope Away From House

How Much Should a Patio Slope Away from the House?

A well-designed patio not only enhances your outdoor living space but also plays a crucial role in managing water runoff and preventing damage to your home's foundation. One important aspect to consider when building a patio is the slope it should have away from the house. This slope is essential for directing water away from the foundation and protecting it from moisture damage.

The recommended slope for a patio varies depending on the type of material used and the specific climate conditions in your area. However, as a general guideline, the patio should slope down and away from the house at a rate of 1/4 inch per foot. This means that for every foot of distance from the house, the patio should be 1/4 inch lower.

For example, if your patio is 10 feet away from the house, it should be 2.5 inches (10 feet x 1/4 inch) lower than the ground level at the house's foundation.

Using the 1/4 inch per foot slope, you can calculate the necessary height difference between the patio and the house foundation for any given distance.

It's important to note that in areas with heavy rainfall or snowmelt, a steeper slope may be necessary to ensure adequate water runoff. Consider consulting with a local contractor or engineer to determine the optimal slope for your specific location.

Here are some additional factors to consider when determining the slope of your patio:

Material type: Different patio materials have different drainage capabilities. For example, concrete patios require a steeper slope than paver patios.
Climate conditions: Areas with frequent heavy rainfall or snowmelt require a steeper slope to handle the increased water volume.
Drainage system: If your patio has a drainage system, such as a French drain or downspout, a less steep slope may be sufficient.

By following these guidelines and considering the specific factors applicable to your situation, you can ensure that your patio slopes appropriately away from the house, promoting proper water drainage and protecting your home's foundation from damage.