Excavate Drainage Trench

What happens here

Begin by using a shovel to mark and excavate a trench next to the house foundation. Ensure the trench has a consistent downward slope away from the house to facilitate water flow. The depth of the trench should be sufficient to accommodate a downspout extension, allowing for effective water diversion. Remove grass and soil as you dig, creating a clear channel for drainage. This step involves significant manual labor.

Goal: Dig a trench along the side of the house, sloped away from the foundation, to create a path for excess water to flow away from the structure.