Question
I am planning on putting in my landscaping in tomorrow and I just noticed that the tar line is even with my current grade now. I would like to put a couple raised flowerbeds (6-12 inches or so) above the current grade, against the house in the front, sides, back, etc.

Do i need to raise the "tarline" on the outside foundation wall in order to keep the water out? Or will just the bare cement keep the water out. I understand being safe is better than sorry, but is it really worth the hassle?

Thanks!!

Answer
Hey, Timothy.

Absolutely raise that tar line. You can do it with proper flashing, too. However, as a home inspector by profession, I would highly recommend not creating raised flower beds against any of your foundation walls, even with appropriate flashing or tar lines.

If you really desire plants in that location, I have two suggestions:

1 - Use containers. Container gardening can allow you to add a little pizzazz with different sizes, colors, and designs, and you can also vary your landscaping very easily if it gets boring simply by moving containers around.

2 - If you just have to have a raised flower bed, leave about 3-6 inches of space beind the flower bed, between the foundation wall and the raised flower bed. You'll be much happier because it will be easier to paint the exterior walls, easier to check for moisture damage and infestation by wood-destroying pests and organisms, and just overall better maintenance.

Insurance companies report that the #1 claim concerns moisture intrusion into the structure, either from roof leaks or from grading problems. So, yes, when it comes that foundation and that exterior wall, do whatever you can to keep water away from the foundation and wall. It is worth the hassle (and whatever extra cost might be involved)!