Drainage Do’s and Don’ts: Expert Tips for Homeowners

While drainage may not be your top priority in maintaining your property, it may cost you twice as much in damages and leaks than to install. Proper drainage is often not brought up unless your region is experiencing heavy rain and inclement weather, but as the expression goes, preparation is the best form of prevention. Maintain your lawn's health while preventing costly damage in the long run. This blog will explore three dos and don'ts of yard drainage, helping you to avoid expensive problems with your landscape in the future. Let's dive in! Do Install a French Drain System Installing a French drain system is one of the most effective ways to manage excess water in your yard and has been for centuries. A French drain consists of a perforated pipe buried in a gravel-filled trench or swale, designed to redirect water away from your home and yard. This system is incredibly efficient in capturing and transporting water, preventing soil erosion, and minimizing the chance of water seeping into your basement or foundation. French drains may also make a better upgrade for lawns that experience frequent pooling and puddling. Installing a French drain is a smart way to protect your property from excessive water problems. Do Use Natural Swales for Proper Runoff Incorporating natural swales into your landscape is a brilliant way to manage water runoff without compromising the aesthetics of your yard. Often located off the side of a driveway or ditch, swales are shallow, lightly grassy depressions that allow water to flow naturally and follow the contours of the land. When used strategically, swales can help retain plant moisture while preventing pooling and waterlogged areas near your landscape. Utilizing natural swales helps drainage and can be a good choice for homeowners with uneven terrain but do not wish to level it. Do Use Permeable Paving Don't forget hardscaping, such as driveways and walkways, when considering your yard's drainage, as they will be right next to any water puddling in your lawn. Instead of using traditional materials like concrete, choose permeable paving options. Permeable materials like porous concrete or gravel allow water to infiltrate the ground, reducing surface runoff. Don't Block Natural Water Flow Avoid drastically altering your property's natural terrain or grading, as it can disrupt water drainage and lead to pooling in unwanted areas. Additionally, refrain from planting large trees or shrubs near drainage systems, as their root systems may infiltrate and clog pipes, causing damage. Don't Forget Regular Maintenance Drainage systems won't be effective without regular maintenance. Neglecting your drainage system can lead to clogs, blockages, and even total system failures, Carefully inspect and clean your gutters, downspouts, and French drain pipes at least twice a year. Additionally, clear debris from natural swales and check for signs of erosion or changes. A little maintenance can go a long way in preserving the health of your yard. Don't Underestimate Professional Assistance While you can implement many drainage solutions independently, you can do more harm than good without the right tools and knowledge of how drainage works in your landscape. If you notice persistent drainage problems or require an evaluation of your yard's drainage, get help from our professional services, such as Year Round. The Negative Cost Effects of Poor Drainage Neglecting effective drainage can lead to several negative effects, most of which will cost you a lot. Accumulated water can damage your home's foundation, causing cracks and structural issues that require expensive repairs and inspections for rotting or disease. Flooding in your yard can also harm your landscape, killing plants and flowers and drowning your soil. Another side effect is stagnant water, a breeding ground for pests like mosquitoes to become attracted to the area. Do Contact Year Round Services for More Year Round Services offers expert solutions tailored to your needs, eliminating drainage problems Visit our website or contact us today to schedule a consultation. By following the do's and avoiding the don'ts of drainage in your yard, you can protect your property and avoid costly mistakes. Implement drainage solutions such as French drains, natural swales, and permeable paving to enhance the health of your lawn. And when facing complex issues, don't hesitate to contact the drainage experts.