Mother Nature may have a mind of her own, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to help prevent potential foundation problems. For example, did you know that adding a swimming pool, patio or even flower beds to your landscape can cause drainage issues? Ultimately, complications from poor drainage can cause foundation movement and lead to foundation cracks.
If you’re considering sprucing up your lawn, make sure you do so with good drainage in mind.
We see it all-too-often… a homeowner adds flower beds to brighten up their yard, skips out on incorporating a proper drainage system to save time, only to wind up with wet spots later down the road.
Save yourself the headache (and money)! Make it a point to include a water drainage system for your flower beds right from the start of your project.
Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of the more popular lawn drainage solutions:
- Swale – an inexpensive system, but has to be re-cut often.
- Perforated corrugated pipe – removes surface & sub-surface water but keeps the soil around your home wet. If not installed properly, it can lead to foundation problems.
- Corrugated pipe with catch basin – although inexpensive & readily available, this option clogs easily and can leave you vulnerable to mosquito breeding.
- French drain – inexpensive & readily available, the traditional french drain doesn’t include a surface drain and is susceptible to silting and clogging. It’s also less durable and can cause foundation problems if not properly installed.
- HydroGo™ System – minimizes soil movement and foundation damage by using a low profile basin to eliminate water. It also includes a flushable pipe resulting in a durable, clog free system.
- Double Barrel™ System – combines elements of the French drain with the superior technological advancements of the HydroGo System. Don’t let a simple problem turn into something big. If you’re thinking about beautifying your lawn this summer, do your home a favor and make sure you have a good drainage solution in place.
Stay tuned to the Olshan blog as we continue to bring you cost and headache-saving foundation maintenance & drainage tips.
Wondering which drainage option would work best for your lawn? We’re here to help – contact us on Facebook.