How to Fix Landscape Drainage Issues
Landscape drainage issues can be a frustrating problem to deal with. From flooding to standing water, these issues can cause serious damage and costly repairs. Fortunately, there are a few steps that homeowners can take to help mitigate landscape drainage issues.
- Identify the Problem – The first step is identifying the source of the landscape drainage issue. Is it a blocked gutter, a downhill slope, or something else? Knowing the cause of the issue is essential for finding a solution.
- Investigate Your Landscape – Look for any potential sources of water that could be contributing to the issue. This could include leaky sprinklers, clogged gutters, or areas of standing water.
- Clean Out Drains and Gutters – Make sure that all drains and gutters are clear. This will help to prevent water from pooling in certain areas and allow it to properly flow away from the home.
- Install a French Drain – A French drain is a great way to divert water away from the home and prevent flooding. This type of drain is typically installed along the foundation of homes and can help to redirect water away from the home.
- Install a Retaining Wall – If your landscape is on a slope, a retaining wall can help to redirect water away from the home and prevent flooding.
These are just a few of the steps that homeowners can take to help fix landscape drainage issues. It is important to consult with a professional if the issue persists or if there is any risk of flooding.
Yard Drainage Problems
There are numerous problems that can arise when your yard does not drain properly. We’ve seen it all over the years, from minor issues to major (and expensive) ones.
Here are some of the most common problems we’ve encountered as a result of poor yard drainage.
Pooling water: Poor patio installation and a lack of drainage solutions may result in a patio that forms a small “pond” with each rainstorm. This can also happen in the yard. Any stagnant water like this invites mosquito breeding.
Unusable yard: If your yard becomes a swamp, it may become completely unusable to your family and friends.
Water in the basement: Every homeowner’s worst nightmare is that poor yard drainage will eventually lead to water in the basement. We’ve unfortunately seen it happen.
Mower ruts: When the yard is constantly wet but you still have to mow, it will eventually leave ruts.
Muddy prints: Whether it’s the dog or the kids, muddy prints continue to find their way onto your hardscaping and, worse, into your home.
Plant bed erosion: When it rains heavily, the plant beds are completely washed out.
Hardscaping floods: Undirected water may wash over your walkways or patio, leaving a muddy mess that must be power washed after every storm.