I recently finished my final grading and ended up with it about half an inch away from the siding. I'm planning to make adjustments in September when the weather warms up, but I'm wondering why it's necessary to have that 6-inch clearance. What kind of damage could happen if it's too close?
2 Answers
In many areas, building codes state that you need at least a 6-inch clearance to reduce moisture problems. If there's not enough space, it could lead to rot and other water damage over time. It’s definitely worth fixing before it becomes a bigger issue.
Keeping a 6-inch gap between the ground and your siding is crucial for several reasons. First off, it prevents insects from easily reaching the wood structure, which could invite termites and other pests. Plus, if the ground's too close, rain can splash back and promote rot, creating long-term issues. I would recommend addressing this sooner rather than waiting for September since termite season can hit early in the spring!