Solving Common Winter Drainage Challenges: A Homeowner’s Guide

by Marcus Sommers, MSLandscaping Principal

When the winter rainy season rolls in, have you ever noticed water pooling in your yard or around your home’s foundation? Drainage problems can sneak up on homeowners. Water can freeze in our flash Southern winter cold snaps and crack foundations. If left unchecked the potential damage can be substantial. It is frustrating and maddening.

I am here to help! Don’t worry! Together, we’ll explore some of the most common drainage challenges and how to tackle them with practical, easy-to-follow solutions.

Understanding Common Drainage Challenges in Your Yard

Drainage issues stem from how water moves across your property. If water doesn’t flow away properly, it can lead to soggy lawns, eroded soil, or even basement leaks through foundations. Here are some typical problems you might face:

• Standing water or puddles after rain

• Soil erosion on slopes or near home foundations

• Water pooling near your home’s foundation

• Clogged or damaged gutters and downspouts

• Slow draining or flooded areas in your yard

  
  

In the wintertime cold temps can exacerbate drainage problems. Each of these challenges can cause damage over time, but the good news is that many are preventable with the right approach to assessing and repairing damage.

Newly installed drainage creek bed pathway with rock on side

and backyards. (Marcus Sommers Landscaping)

Identifying and Diagnosing Drainage Problems

Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand what’s causing the drainage issues on your property. Here’s how you can diagnose the problem:

1. Observe after a rainstorm: Walk around your yard and note where water collects, flows slowly. or in some cases bubbles up from the ground.

2. Check your gutters and downspouts: Are they clogged or directing water too close to your home? When was last time the gutters were cleaned? Do you have a gutter maintenance schedule?

3. Look for signs of erosion: Bare patches of soil or exposed roots can indicate water runoff problems.

4. Inspect your foundation: Cracks or damp spots inside your basement or crawl space may signal poor drainage. Are there places where water is directed to run along side the foundation?

   
   

By pinpointing the source, you can choose the most effective fix. Sometimes, a simple adjustment can make a big difference!

Practical Solutions for Common Drainage Challenges

Now, let’s dive into some actionable ways that I use to solve client drainage headaches. Whether you’re dealing with a soggy lawn or water pooling near your home, my tips will help you get things flowing smoothly again.

1. Improve Grading and Slope

Water should always flow away from your home. If your yard slopes toward the foundation, it’s time to regrade. A gentle slope of about 5% (or 6 inches over 10 feet) away from your house helps direct water safely downhill.

• I use soil to build up low spots near your foundation allowing water to run away from it.

• Soil near a foundation should remain porous allowing water to flow into the soil and in the direction of the grade away from the house.

  
  

2. Clean and Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

Many times I get called out to a home to evaluate drainage issues and the first thing I notice is that the gutters and downspouts are compacted with leaves, debris and in the winter, ice. Regular cleaning is essential, especially in the fall when leaves accumulate. I also recommend gutter guards if your house sits under or close to tree branches.

• Clear debris from gutters at least twice a year.

• Extend downspouts at least 5 feet away from your foundation.

• Use splash blocks or drainage pipes to guide water further away.

• Have gutters maintained and repaired as needed.

  
  

3. Install French Drains or Dry Wells

For areas where water tends to collect, I install a French drain that is usually a game changer in the drainage battle. This underground trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe redirects water away from problem spots.

• French drains work well for yards with poor natural drainage.

• Dry wells collect and disperse water underground, reducing surface pooling.

  
  

4. Use Rain Gardens and Native Plants

Rain gardens are fun to design and install AND they can be installed in the wintertime. They are planted depressions that absorb water. When used properly they add a year round yard aesthetic that sustains itself. They not only help with drainage, but they also add beauty and support local wildlife.

• I choose evergreen native plants that thrive in wet conditions and

• Position rain gardens in low-lying areas where water naturally collects.

• This eco-friendly solution reduces runoff and filters pollutants.

• Rain gardens also attract more birds and honey bees which is great for greener, more vibrant yards.

  
  

5. Repair or Replace Damaged Drainage Systems

Sometimes, drainage pipes or systems get damaged or clogged over time. If you notice persistent water issues after you have had drainage installed in prior years it might be time to have the drainage inspected for age wear and tear.

• Inspect underground pipes for blockages or breaks. In the wintertime you might experience ice in the pipes or cracks.

• Replace old or damaged drainage components.

• Professional landscaping services can provide tailored solutions.

  
  

Proper Drainage Installation (Marcus Sommers Landscaping)

4 Season Tips to Keep Your Drainage System Healthy

Just like your garden needs seasonal care, your drainage system benefits from regular attention throughout the year. Here are some tips to keep things running smoothly:

• Spring: Check for winter damage and clear debris from gutters.

• Summer: Monitor irrigation to avoid overwatering, which can worsen drainage.

• Fall: Clean gutters thoroughly and prepare your yard for heavy rains. Consider a fall clean-up allowing mulch from leaves in the gutters and yards to protect the garden beds.

• Winter: Ensure downspouts are clear to prevent ice dams and water backup. Consider a second, smaller clean-up to collect the last of the fall leaves and debris and make sure the garden beds are protected for the winter.

When to Call Me for Drainage Solutions

Sometimes, drainage issues are too complex for the homeowner. If you’re dealing with persistent flooding, foundation damage, or large-scale erosion, it’s wise to seek my help. I bring 25+ years of hands-on drainage knowledge to every client drainage issue. I design personalized, high-quality drainage solutions that protect your home and enhance your outdoor spaces.

Remember, a well-designed landscape with the proper drainage solutions not only looks beautiful, but it also manages water effectively, keeping your property safe and healthy year-round.

I hope this guide has helped increase your knowledge of drainage issues and given you the confidence to tackle drainage problems in your yard. With a little effort and the right approach, you can enjoy a dry, thriving yard no matter the season. Ready to get started? Give me a call to arrange a FREE consultation - (706) -300-0477. I am ready to assist you with understanding the best approach to a drainage solution.