Diagnosing And Fixing Water Drainage Problems

A Quick Homeowners Guide

Water is essential for life, but too much of it can hurt your home. An undiagnosed residential water drainage problem can lead to serious damage. It can cause mold, expensive repairs and foundation issues.

The good news is that you can often spot these issues early. This guide from the experts at G.L. Hunt will show you how to solve water drainage problems quickly.

Why Do I Have A Drainage Problem?

To know how to fix water drainage problems, you must first find the cause. In Texas, our clay soil is a big issue. It swells up when it is wet and shrinks in dry weather. This constant movement pushes on your foundation. Good drainage is the best defense against this damaging cycle.

The most common causes of a home drainage problem include:

• Bad grading — This means the ground slopes toward your foundation. Water collects at your house instead of flowing away.
• Clogged gutters — Your roof water should flow away from the house. If gutters are blocked or too short, water pours right next to your foundation.
• Hard clay soil — Texas clay does not soak up water fast. It compacts easily, which makes water pool on the surface.
• Neighbor’s water — If your property is in a low spot, you may get runoff from nearby yards. This can overwhelm your drainage system.

Signs You Have A Water Drainage Problem

Look for these key signs that you have a drainage problem. Fixing small issues now is much cheaper than fixing a damaged foundation later.

Look For Standing Water

• Long-lasting puddles — If water or mud stays in your yard for a whole day after it rains, you have a drainage problem.
• Water by the foundation — Water pooling against your foundation is a critical warning sign.
• Soggy yard — If the ground feels spongy or muddy under your feet, the soil is soaked through.

Look For Damage

• Damp smells — A musty smell in your basement or crawl space means moisture is getting inside.
• Erosion marks — Look for small ditches or trenches in your yard or flower beds. This shows that water is washing away your soil.
• Cracked concrete — Pooling water can make sidewalks or driveways sink and crack over time.

How To Fix Water Drainage Problems: Quick Steps

You can try a few simple things to solve water drainage problems on your own quickly.

1. Extend downspouts — Clean your gutters and add extensions. This will push water at least six feet away from your foundation.
2. Adjust the slope — Add soil around your foundation. Create a gentle slope that directs water away from your home.
3. Aerate the ground — Use an aerator to poke small holes in the grass. This helps compacted soil soak up water better.

Professional Solutions From G.L. Hunt

If the simple fixes do not work, your residential water drainage problems are likely underground. These serious issues need a professional solution. G.L. Hunt offers the best drainage systems for Texas homes.

The French Drain

A French drain is the most powerful tool for serious water problems.

• It’s a hidden trench with a special pipe inside.
• The system collects water deep in the soil before it touches your foundation.
• It then moves that water safely away from your house. This is best for low yards or properties with a lot of runoff.

Other Expert Systems

• Surface drains — These are grates placed in low areas that quickly collect pooling water and pipe it away.
• Sump pumps — These pumps remove water that gets into your crawl space or basement.

Protect Your Foundation Today

Do not ignore a drainage problem. Soil that is too wet or too dry is the number one cause of foundation issues in Texas. Water near your home can cause clay soil to swell, damaging your foundation slab. This leads to costly cracks and other structural problems.

If you still see water problems after trying simple fixes, call a professional right away. Solve water drainage problems before they become foundation emergencies.
G.L. Hunt has been the trusted name for foundation and drainage services across Texas for over 30 years. We’ll diagnose your water issue and install the right solution. Protect your most important investment.

Call the experts at G.L. Hunt today for a free drainage inspection and estimate.