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Have you ever thought about the issues that can be done to your lawn and home if you do not have the proper drainage system? These issues can be very expensive to repair and some insurance companies may not cover them. Mother Nature can be very unpredictable which can lead to problems regarding flooding or the creation of ponds of water. It may not seem like something you need to worry about, but an improper drainage system could destroy your lawn and the foundation of your home.

Effects of Bad Drainage

Over a period of time, the ground may settle and shift which can cause puddles of standing water. Standing water can lead to many problems including:

  • Soil erosion, decrease in grass health, and yellowing of your grass
  • Can create low spots in the ground leading to a shift in the ground causing it to become uneven and unsafe
  • Too much water can cause your trees, shrubs, and flowers to drown. As a result they can die causing your landscape’s health and appearance to change
  • If the water’s drainage route is close to your home’s foundation or if puddles of water are nearby, then the water can seep into your basement causing it to flood

Signs of Drainage Issues

Looking for these signs can help you determine whether or not you have a drainage issue.

  • Standing water that does not absorb into the ground
  • Low spots that collect water
  • Soggy ground that is noticeable
  • Pooling water at the bottom of downspouts
  • Soil erosion on uneven ground
  • Water damage on the outside of structures

Causes of Drainage Issues

Once you have determined you have drainage issues, you will then need to find out where the problem is coming from. Different factors can play into the cause, some being easier to find than others.

  • Hard ground that is not absorbing water the way softer soil does
  • Uneven ground, which can cause high and low point in your yard, can lead to pools of water in the low spots
  • Problems with downspouts and gutters, such as debris and cracks that block the water from exiting
  • Obstacles that get in the way of water runoff, such as buildings and bushes

 

Common Solutions

Many times landscaping can help improve some drainage issues. However, a properly installed drainage system may be needed depending on how severe the issues are.

  • Clean, repair, or replace downspouts and gutters
  • Remove any obstacles that might be getting in the way from water exiting your yard
  • Use French drains to keep water from pooling in low spots around your yard
  • Use a sump pump on areas of your yard that are more likely than other areas to have excess water
  • Create a creek or rock bed to help channel water runoff
  • Use landscaping rock to create a fountain
  • Install a small grate to collect runoff

 

Drainage problems are a common experience for individuals who own a home that sits at a lower spot than their neighbors. These problems can be frustrating and costly to fix, something that nobody wants to endure. The professionals at St. Louis Select Landscaping would like to help you in creating an aesthetic drainage system that will make you smile. Call us today at (314) 568-6550 to discuss what solution works best for you and your landscape.