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Drainage: Stop that Water!

After the last mega rainstorm we had, many of us can relate to the problems water can cause when there is too much of it or when there is nowhere for it to go.  From wet basements to soggy lawns and “overnight ponds”, I would bet we can all name someone who just can’t take another all day down pour!  Drainage, an unsexy element on a landscape plan, is often an overlooked, but crucial element to any landscape or construction project.  When it comes to dealing with water, getting it right can mean the difference between spending your time pumping water out of your basement and sleeping soundly at night, knowing your home will be dry after the rain.  Before the next storm hits, let’s look at some ways to fix your drainage problem.

How do you create effective drainage?  First understand where the water is coming from and where it naturally is trying to go.  Water will always take the path of least resistance and trying to stop it will always result in a losing battle.  Instead of trying to fight Mother Nature, think about how you can make it easier for the water to travel its natural course.  Next, if you need to avoid certain areas like a house foundation, pool, or patio, make sure there is adequate slope away from these areas so the water can move freely past them.  A good rule of thumb for slope away from a house is 6 inches for the first 10 feet, or 5% slope.   Once properly graded, downspouts should be extended a minimum of 5’ away from the foundation.   Depending on your site and existing limitations, a swale may need to be created to carry water away from existing structures.  Drainage pipe, stone, and other hard materials can be used to capture, move and store large amounts of water.  Once you have a plan to direct the water to where it will inevitably go, think how you can use the water responsibly to help your landscape.

How can this problem become beneficial to your landscape?  Instead of piping water all the way to the street or the woods, it can be directed out into a properly graded lawn and provide additional irrigation for grass and trees.  Installing a rain garden is a great way to add color and interest to an otherwise barren or soggy area.  Groundcovers, perennials, and trees can also help absorb water and filter it back into the ground, thus reducing the amount of runoff into the Bay. Another great solution is to install a cistern, which creates underground storage and allows water to be saved and later used for irrigation during periods of heat and drought.  Finally, when it comes to hard surfaces, a pervious pavement can drain and filter an incredible amount of water, while creating a walking path or additional parking space.  Through the creative use of either one, or a combination of these methods, you can come up with a functional and pleasing solution to rain water problems on your property, all while doing your part to lessen your impact on the surrounding water shed and being an environmentally friendly member of your community.

There is a drainage solution for every problem. Lawn Wrangler is a local firm, providing professional solutions for all your landscape needs.  For more information or a personalized consultation our friendly staff is ready to help.  Contact our office at 410.975.5125.