Don't forget that landscaping does more than beautify your property. It can enhance your home's value and work with the grading and drainage to improve foundation performance. If done right, an investment in landscaping can return 200% of its cost in street appeal and value. The American Society of Landscape Architects website ontains some good ideas regarding landscaping. ASLA suggests a realistic budget of 5% to 10% of your house's value. If you are going to do it yourself, do it right. Don't fill in the drainage swales that guide water away from the slab. Don't put in raised mulch beds without a proper slope or drainage, and keep at least a 4- to 6-inch clearance of plant bed material from the tops of the slab, footings and foundation.Maintain at least a 12-inch clearance from the bottoms of wood beams or girders.
