National Home Inspector Practice Exam 2025 - Free Home Inspector Practice Questions and Study Guide

Poor grading around a foundation can significantly affect a home primarily by leading to water pooling and potential foundation damage. When grading is insufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water is unable to drain effectively. This can result in excess water accumulating around the foundation, which can lead to several problems, including:

- **Hydrostatic Pressure**: With water pooling, the pressure exerted against the foundation walls increases, which can cause cracks or structural failure of the foundation over time.

- **Moisture Intrusion**: Prolonged exposure to water can allow moisture to seep into the basement or crawl space, leading to issues such as mold growth, wood decay, and damage to stored items.

- **Soil Erosion**: Consistent water accumulation can erode the soil around the foundation, further destabilizing it and increasing the risk of settlement or shifting.

- **Impact on drainage systems**: It may also overwhelm or damage any existing drainage systems, exacerbating the problem.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the implications of poor grading. Cosmetic issues might occur, but they are not the main concern compared to structural integrity. Improving aesthetics or facilitating better airflow are not benefits that arise from poor grading; in fact, good grading