When you own a business that is either on top of a hill or built on a slope, you may worry that the angle of the ground's surface could lead to erosion of the soil. If so, look for the following signs that your commercial property's landscape is being affected by soil erosion.

1.  Gulleys Form on the Surface of the Ground

One of the first signs that you may notice when soil erosion is a problem on your commercial property is the presence of gulleys on the surface of the ground. Because water travels the path of least resistance, it will start flowing down in lower lying areas that already exist on the hill or slope of your landscape.

However, as the water continuously travels down the same paths, the soil on the surface starts to be carried away along with it. As a result, small gulleys and trenches will be cut out by the water.

These indentations will only continue to grow over time since the water will keep flowing through the same paths. The spots will become bare, and even if you try to replant grass seed, the seed and the new grass will also be carried away.

2.  Soil Is Pushing Against Your Sidewalks

Along with looking for the formation of gulleys and trenches on your property for signs of soil erosion, you should also look along the edges of your sidewalks, especially the side that is closest to the top of the hill or slope. As surface soil erodes, you will start to see the dirt pushing against this side of the sidewalk as the edges stop its flow.

Not only does this excess dirt create a messy walkway, but it will eventually cause major damage to your sidewalks. As the pressure from the water and soil builds up on the one side, the added weight will make the concrete crack and break apart, creating an unsafe walkway for your workers and customers.

If the erosion is not put in check, the entire sidewalks may actually start to move. The slabs themselves may start to slide down the incline, or the soil will breach the space underneath and push the sidewalks up.

If you notice either of the above signs, your commercial landscape's soil is most likely eroding, leaving you to wonder what you can do about it. If so, contact a contractor who offers soil stabilization services to discuss your options for countering and preventing the effects of erosion on your property.