Drainage Problems? Here’s How to Identify and Solve Them

With an entire property to maintain, you've likely encountered your fair share of challenges as a homeowner, but few can be as frustrating and potentially damaging as drainage problems. These issues can range from minor problems to major, costly damage if left unchecked and, even worse, compromise the structure of your property. Fortunately, by being aware of the common signs of drainage problems, you can take proactive measures to ensure the longevity and safety of your home. Keep reading for more on common drainage issues, the consequences of leaving them unsolved, and why you should consider professional drainage services to address them effectively. Identifying Common Drainage Issues Unlike other home issues, drainage problems often give a visual indicator that something is wrong. These problems are reflected in raised energy and water bills and show in the appearance of your lawn. Here are some commonly noticeable drainage issues and how to identify them properly. Standing Water Standing water in your landscape is one of the most visible signs of something wrong with your drainage system. You’ll notice puddles that linger long after rainstorms or areas that remain soggy throughout the day. Walking through your lawn with standing water is difficult unless you have rain boots; the soft ground becomes muddy even then. Various factors, such as poor soil drainage, improper grading, or blocked drainage pipes, can cause this. Erosion and Soil Shift Another common problem is soil erosion or shifts in the landscape. When water is not directed away from your property correctly through a drainage system, it can erode the soil, damage the foundations, and lead to sinkholes. Signs of erosion include exposed roots, soil washing away, or uneven surfaces in your yard. Erosion is more common in lawns with uneven sloping or larger soil deposits. Basement Flooding Another serious issue is basement flooding, often tied to poor drainage. While poor drainage systems can lead to this problem, this can also be a sign of plumbing issues, leaking pipes, and insufficiently closed windows. If you frequently find water in your basement, it's important to address the problem immediately to prevent damage to your home's foundation, mold growth, and other potential health hazards. Reasons Not to Leave Drainage Issues Unsolved Ignoring drainage problems can have severe outcomes for your property and wallet. Here are some reasons to take immediate action: Structural Damage Water is one of the most destructive forces to a home's integrity. Prolonged exposure to water can weaken foundations by seeping into the walls, eroding support structures, and compromising the stability of your home. With enough water damage, parts of the home can collapse. Repairing the damage can be extremely expensive, especially if there were no steps to reverse the damage leading up to it. Decreased Property Value Drainage issues can significantly reduce the value of your home. A property with ongoing water problems will likely deter potential buyers as they would not want to handle those problems once the home is bought. Addressing these issues protects your investment and enhances your property's resale value. Health Hazards Excess moisture in your home, whether due to basement flooding or water seepage, can lead to mold and mildew growth. Not only can the water contaminate spaces in the home, but the damage can lead to a considerable amount of unhealthy stress. Mold also damages your property and can pose serious health risks to your family, particularly those with allergies or respiratory issues, as mold can affect the lungs. How Fall Can Disrupt Proper Draining Fall, though a beautiful time for enjoying the weather, can disrupt the normal functions of your home’s condition. With fluctuating weather to keep in mind, there are also other issues to be aware of: Leaves and Debris Fallen leaves can create additional challenges for your drainage system. Leaves can easily clog gutters, pipes, and downspouts, diverting proper water flow. This can result in an overflow of water or the water not properly moving away from the property, as well as damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. If your landscape is not cleaned for long periods due to the leaves, it becomes a breeding ground for debris building up. Pest Possibilities Fallen leaves also create a habitat for pests like rodents and insects, often unseen under the piles. Clogged drains and gutters can become bases for these unwanted guests, posing an increased risk of pest infestations in your home. The Best Solution: Professional Drainage Services Year Round Services offers a range of drainage solutions, including:

1. Drainage Inspections: Our experts will thoroughly assess your property to identify drainage issues and recommend the most effective solutions.
2. Fall Cleanups: Clean your gutters of leaves and debris with professional yard cleanups.
3. Landscape Drainage: We design and install custom landscape solutions, preserving the beauty of your outdoor spaces.