3 Drainage Systems That Protect Your Home From Foundation Damage And Drain Water From Your Yard

Posted on: 17 June 2021

Your property needs to drain well, or else part of your yard may stay wet and sloshy. Even worse, your home might sustain foundation damage. Poor drainage is also a common cause of wet basement problems. If your property isn't draining well, you may need to get a drainage system installed. Here's a look at three popular types of drainage systems you might want to consider.

1. Channel Drains Are For Pool Decks And Driveways

If water always pools on a concrete surface, your contractor might suggest a channel drain. These are cut into the concrete and covered with a grate so that rain falls in the channel and is directed away from your deck or driveway.

A channel drain can also be placed along the sides of your driveway to help the driveway drain faster. The rain can then roll to the street through a drain where it empties without causing damage elsewhere on your lawn.

2. Swales Move Water Where You Want It To Go

A swale is a side and shallow ditch the contractor can dig on your property that moves water from where it gathers to a more useful place on your property. A swale is often worked into the landscaping theme of your yard so it is attractive and not recognizable as a drainage system.

You might have a rock garden, rain garden, or other decorative elements in the swale so the depression isn't as noticeable. In times of heavy rain, the swale could act as a small creek as it holds and moves water until the rain stops. You might want the water to empty in a pond or garden where it's needed and away from the backyard where you want the lawn to stay dry.

3. French Drains Keep Water Away From The Foundation

A French drain is a common drainage system for foundation protection. This consists of a drain with slits on the top that lets rain fall inside. The drain is buried in the ground near your house and covered with gravel.

When it rains, water falls through the gravel and fills the drain. The drain sends the water to the street or a dry well so it can't harm your home or get your basement wet. A French drain is deep in the ground below your foundation so it catches water before it gets in your house. It's covered with gravel, soil, and grass so it's completely out of sight.

A drainage contractor can help you choose the best way to keep your property dry and protect your foundation. Even altering the slop of your land or changing your landscaping might help.

Contact a company like 1-800 BusyDog Basement Technologies to learn more.