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Fixing Water Drainage Problems on Your Property

As a property owner, it is critical that you start fixing water drainage problems on your land as soon as you notice them. Improper drainage can result in cracks, floods, water leaks, and mold that ruin the foundation of your home or building. 

There are several ways to fix water drainage problems, including under and above-ground trenches, special plants or vegetation, and better property grading. In order to understand how to fix your drainage problem, it’s important to learn what caused it to begin with. 

Why drainage problems occur

Understanding the reasons for common drainage problems can help you better understand how to fix and avoid these problems. Your drainage problems may be caused by:

  • Lack of elevation at the foundation- The foundation of your home or building must be slightly elevated, otherwise, water will not be able to run downhill and into a street, alley, or gutter.
  • Attempting to DIY your excavation- Hiring a professional to perform your excavation is critical in order to ensure the proper drainage. Otherwise, you risk over-compacting the soil and failing to properly grade it when filling in excavated areas on your own.
  • Clogged gutters- If your gutters are too small or clogged, water will spill over the sides and flood your yard.
  • Poor plant placement- If your plants aren’t placed far enough from your home or building, or are blocking the path of water runoff, this can cause your lawn to hold on to moisture and water. Border walls and heavy stones used for landscaping purposes can also inhibit water runoff.
  • Underground structures holding the moisture- Septic tanks, in-ground pools, and other underground structures or paved surfaces can cause the soil on your property to lock in moisture rather than draining it.

The dangers of poor drainage

  1. Most soil does not offer a good base for foundations when wet, and can cause garages, sheds, barns, and other structures to shift. This can result in cracks inside the walls, floors, and ceilings of your home or building that let in warm air and pests.
  2. Moist soil can add pressure to any buried water tanks or in-ground pools on your property, resulting in cracks and other damage.
  3. Soft soil can cause patio pavers and concrete to shift, resulting in chips or cracks.
  4. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests like rodents or termites that are seeking a water source. These pesky creatures may then make their way into your home or building.
  5. Standing water and overly moist soil fuels the growth of fungus and other unwanted plants that can destroy your lawn and even trees.

When fixing water drainage problems on your property, it’s always best to hire a professional. Otherwise, you risk worsening the problem and causing thousands of dollars worth of damage or fines. Thankfully, Stan’s Airboat & Marsh is here to help. We specialize in marsh excavation, and have the proper equipment to fix your drainage problems in even the wettest areas. Contact us today to request a quote!

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