What direction should the concrete around the post slope to drain water?

• A. Toward the post
• B. Away from the post
• C. Flat level
• D. In multiple directions toward and away

Answer: (B)

Water should shed away from the post. Pouring concrete with a slight slope away from the base directs runoff away from the post, keeping moisture from accumulating at the joint. This reduces the chance of wood rot in wooden posts, corrosion in metal posts, and movement from freeze–thaw cycles that can loosen the footing. A flat surface can trap water at the base, and sloping toward the post would funnel moisture into the base area. Sloping in multiple directions wouldn’t provide a clear drainage path, so directing water away from the post is the best practice.