Maintain Safe Height Below Weep Holes

• Mulch must never be higher than weep holes or foundation vent gaps.
• Keep mulch at least 4–6 inches below the lowest weep hole.
• Weep holes need to stay visible for drainage, ventilation, and termite inspection.
• Mulch or soil touching these openings can cause moisture intrusion and pest access.

Correct Slope Away From Foundation

• Foundation side should be the highest point, walkway side slightly lower.
• Target slope: 1–2% grade (about ⅛–¼ inch drop per foot).
• Use a level and measure the gap at the walkway end to confirm slope.
• Too steep: mulch slides; too flat: water sits near the foundation.

Firm, Compacted Soil Base

• Remove mulch and shape the soil to the desired slope first.
• Tamp the soil firmly and lightly water to settle before adding mulch.
• In sandy areas, mix in topsoil and compost for a more stable base.
• Mulch only looks level if the soil underneath is truly flat and compacted.

Controlled Mulch Depth

• Ideal mulch depth: 2–3 inches maximum.
• Apply in thin layers, raking smooth between passes.
• Too much mulch can slide, rot, and hold excess moisture against the foundation.
• Lightly press or rake the surface to lock it in place.

Why a Lower Channel Is Needed

• If the walkway is at the same height as the weep holes, grade cannot rise safely.
• Soil and mulch will naturally creep up to walkway height if not controlled.
• This risks blocking weep holes and trapping moisture at the wall.
• The solution: create a lower “river” trench along the walkway.

Designing the “River” Trench

Depth & Width

• Lower the trench about 2–4 inches below the walkway surface.
• Ensure the trench bottom is still 4–6 inches below the weep holes.
• Typical width: 8–12 inches for narrow beds; up to 18" for a bolder look.

Fill Material

• Use river rock (1–3"), pea gravel, or clean stone (#57).
• Stone doesn’t rot, blow away, or hold as much moisture as mulch.
• Mulch stays on the foundation side; stone defines the low drainage path.

Edging & Containment

• Install edging along the walkway to keep mulch from spilling into the trench.
• Options: metal edging, plastic edging, paver/stone border, or composite boards.
• Set the top of the edging to match your desired mulch height.
• This creates a clean, level “box” for mulch and a separate stone river for drainage.

Safe Profile Summary

The trench becomes the lowest point, ensuring water and grade stay below the weep holes while the bed still looks neat.