Improper drainage is a common cause for basement leaks and flooding. Rain that pools near the foundation will eventually weaken the structure and allow leaks to develop along the interior. This is why yard draining correction is so important. Implementing one of the following options will help to redirect the water flow and protect your home from water damage.
Shallow ditches make up the majority of this drainage system, guiding the water away from the home and reducing the chances for flooding. Foundation contractors will measure the natural slope of the yard prior to making any changes to determine where the ditches would prove most useful.
Swales use a technique that slopes the yard away from the home. The contractors build up low sections of the lawn and give them a smooth grade to keep the water running toward the street. This won’t alter the appearance of the property and could prevent the rain from pooling in the grass.
French drains feature gravel trenches that direct the water away from the affected area. Some use a perforated tube to manage the large amounts of precipitation, while others require a sump pump to move the rainfall from one place to another. While this is one of the most disruptive methods, it’s effective for protecting the lawn from drowning.
Using plants as a way to soak up excess moisture from the yard is another popular solution. Homeowners select from a number of native varieties that are made for swampy conditions, such as dogwoods and willows, and construct an attractive addition to their landscape.
Perfecting the gutter and downspout alignment is the best way to preserve your foundation. These devices are made to collect the rainwater as it falls from the roof and direct it safely away from the house. While you may have enough gutter length to keep water away from the roof, you also sufficient downspout access to channel it from the foundation. The average home should have one spout for every 20 feet of guttering, but you may need more than this if you have drainage issues.
To learn more, call Cincinnati Basement Waterproofing & Drainage today at (513) 898-9723.