How to Correct a Grade to Improve Lawn Drainage

Pound a stake through the soil at the highest point. Insert a parallel stake through the soil 8 feet away, in the direction of the desired grade or slope. Check that the stakes are straight and level.

Wind garden string to the top of the first stake and extend it to the second stake. Check that the string runs level and straight between the two stakes before fastening it around the second stake.

Measure every 12 inches along the string and mark the spots with a colored marker. Cut identical lengths of tape and attach over the marked spots along the string. Ensure each tape length is long enough to dangle toward the ground.

Measure the distance between each length of tape and string and note it down. Generally, a slope of 3/4 inch per foot of land, directed away from your home or structure, is ideal. For instance, if the spacing between the first tape and soil is 8 inches, the distance between the second tape and soil should be 7 ¼ inches. Determine the ideal spacing between each tape length and string from one stake to the other and write next to the actually measurements.

Read the actual and ideal measurements so you compare them, to get an idea of how much soil you have to add or remove to achieve the desired grade in the 8-foot section of your yard. Using a shovel, dig out sections of soil or add soil to low areas to achieve the desired grade. Measure the space between the soil and tape as you work so you know the ideal spacing you want to achieve.

Firm the 8-foot space between the two stakes with a tamper. Remove the first stake from the ground. Measure 8 feet away from the second stake, on its other side, and insert it into the soil over the spot. Extend string between the second and third stakes and repeat the process of adding tape every 12 inches to improve the soil's grade in sections.