In wetter areas of the country, backyard drainage problems can build into a variety of issues. Extremely rainy conditions, poorly constructed yard pitch, or an ineffective water routing system will result in a mushy, sometimes swampy area. At the very least, the homeowner will end up with mud in the house and, at the worst, water leaking into the home. Grass and landscaping cannot flourish, and a myriad of mosquitoes and other pests will invade. Additionally, mold and mildew will grow on the home and surrounding features. Painting, staining, and pool deck resurfacing will have to be done more often to handle the continuing moisture.
What Can Be Done?
If the home is located below the surrounding terrain, it may be wise to hire a professional to fix the problem. However, most common drainage issues can be fixed in one or more ways, some of which are DIY if you are handy. Some suggestions for resolution are:
- A French drain or catch basin will divert the water away from the home. It is a trench that is lined with gravel or rock that leads to the street or another area for drainage.
- A swale can also be dug to drain the water into a shallow gully. This only works if you have a property that allows for a wet area away from the rest of the yard.
- Curtain drains use a perforated pipe to run the water to the street.
- A dry well can be dug and a holding tank inserted to contain the access water.
- Digging a dry creek bed can make for an ornamental landscape option that works as a drainage solution as well. Fill the creek bed with rocks and boulders to create a nice water feature.
- A more expensive option is to have a sump pump put in. The pump will remove the water and divert it to a different area.
- Installing gutters and downspouts are often the only change required to move the water away from the yard. However, the proper alignment of the downspouts is vital to ensure that the water is directed where it should be. In yards that are completely flat, a pop-up device may be installed.
- Keep trees and bushes trimmed to avoid too much shade. Rake leaves regularly and add well-draining soil to problem areas.
A professional landscape architects can help you determine the right decision to fix your drainage issue. It is essential that the problem be resolved as soon as possible to avoid damage that will require repairs, repainting, pool deck resurfacing, patio replacement, and more
Sources
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/yard-drainage-solutions/
https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/gardens/planting-and-maintenance/solving-common-drainage-problems
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-achieve-better-yard-drainage/
