How to Fix Lawn Drainage Problems

A yard with poor drainage can be a frustrating problem, leading to muddy patches, standing water, and even damage to your home’s foundation. Addressing lawn drainage issues is essential not only for the health of your grass but also for preventing water intrusion into your home. Here’s how to fix common lawn drainage problems and when to call in the pros at AWS for expert exterior drainage solutions.

Signs of Lawn Drainage Issues

Poor lawn drainage can reveal itself in a variety of ways. You might notice persistent puddles that linger long after it rains or water pooling near your home’s foundation, which can pose a risk to your property. Other signs include soggy or muddy areas in your yard that never seem to dry out, as well as thin, patchy grass or dying plants due to waterlogged soil. If your lawn constantly feels damp or shows any of these symptoms, it’s a clear indication of a drainage problem that needs to be addressed.

Causes of Lawn Drainage Problems

Several factors can contribute to lawn drainage issues, with improper grading being one of the most common. If the ground isn’t sloped correctly, water tends to collect in low spots instead of flowing away. Compacted soil can also prevent water from seeping through, causing it to pool on the surface. Also, excessive thatch, which is an overly thick layer of organic debris on your lawn, can trap water and worsen drainage problems. In some cases, clogged or inefficient drainage systems may fail to handle runoff properly, exacerbating water accumulation in your yard.

How to Fix Lawn Drainage Problems

• Install a Swale

A swale is a shallow, gently sloping channel designed to redirect water away from your yard and prevent pooling. Often lined with grass or gravel, swales help manage runoff by guiding it to a designated drainage area, such as a garden or storm drain. This solution is especially effective for yards with significant water accumulation in low-lying areas.

• Install a French Drain

A French drain is a highly effective solution for redirecting water. This system uses a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel to collect and divert excess water away from problem areas.

• Design an Infiltration Trench

An infiltration trench is a more advanced drainage solution that allows water to seep slowly into the ground. This trench, filled with gravel or other permeable materials, collects excess water and filters it back into the soil naturally, reducing runoff and minimizing pooling. It’s an eco-friendly option for homeowners looking to manage drainage without relying on surface-level redirection.

• Add a Dry Well

A dry well can help manage excess water by collecting it and allowing it to slowly seep into the ground. This is particularly useful for areas that experience heavy runoff.

• Improve Downspout Extensions

Ensure your downspouts are directing water at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation. Installing extensions or splash blocks can help guide water to safer areas.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor lawn drainage issues can be resolved with DIY efforts, larger or recurring problems often require the expertise of a professional like AWS. Poor drainage can cause long-term damage to your property if not addressed properly.

Why Choose AWS for Exterior Drainage Solutions?

At AWS, we specialize in providing customized drainage solutions to address even the most challenging lawn drainage problems. Whether you need a French drain, regrading, or another exterior drainage system, our team will design and implement a plan tailored to your yard’s needs. With AWS, you can protect your lawn, home, and foundation from the risks of poor drainage.

Don’t Let Water Take Over Your Yard

Take control of your lawn drainage problems before they lead to bigger issues. Contact the exterior drainage experts at AWS today to schedule a consultation and learn how to fix lawn drainage problems so you can keep your yard dry and your home protected.