Yard Drainage Solutions: Expert Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

If your yard doesn’t drain naturally away from your home, you may notice standing pools in the yard after a storm. The build-up of water looks harmless enough, but it can cause several issues, including damaging your home’s foundation.

The experienced team at Ware Landscaping helps homeowners and businesses in Naperville and throughout Chicagoland with drainage. Our guiding mission is not just to help take the burden of lawn care off of your hands, but to help make an impact on your life and your family’s life.

Standing water in the garden pathway

Who To Call For Drainage Problems In the Yard?

If you’re experiencing drainage issues in your yard, it’s best to call a professional landscaper or a drainage contractor like Ware Landscaping. We specialize in assessing drainage problems and implementing effective solutions. You can also contact your local municipal authority or public works department for guidance, especially if the issue seems to be related to larger drainage infrastructure.

Why Is Standing Water a Problem In My Yard? 

Stagnant water in your yard can be a prime environment for mosquitoes to breed, which can cause an annoying and potentially dangerous problem. Mosquitoes are known to spread viruses and other diseases.

How Do I Know If I Have A Drainage Problem In My Yard?

Recognizing drainage problems early can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the line. Here are some telltale signs that indicate you may have a drainage issue in your yard:

  • Soggy Soil: If certain areas of your yard consistently have damp or soggy soil, even during dry periods, it could be a sign of poor drainage.
  • Pooling Water: Puddles or standing water that persists for extended periods after rainfall indicate that water is not draining properly.
  • Foundation Cracks: Excess moisture around your home’s foundation can lead to cracks or deterioration over time. Keep an eye out for any signs of foundation damage, such as cracks or shifts.
  • Floods: If your yard experiences flooding during heavy rainfalls or storms, it’s a clear indication of inadequate drainage.
  • Basement Mold: Moisture seeping into your basement due to poor yard drainage can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Keep an eye out for musty odors or visible mold growth.
  • Damage to Plants: Waterlogged soil can harm plants and grass, leading to yellowing, wilting, or even death of vegetation.

What are the signs that I need a professional drainage solution?

Signs that you may need a professional drainage solution include standing water or pooling in your yard, soil erosion, water seepage into your basement or crawlspace, consistently soggy or waterlogged areas, and excessive runoff during rainfall. If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to consult with a drainage expert to assess the problem and recommend appropriate solutions.

How Do You Establish Proper Drainage In A Lawn?

For the best results, it’s best to consult with a professional yard drainage expert. Ware Landscaping has the necessary tools, crew, and expertise to properly assess underlying issues, create a tailored solution, re-grade the lawn, install the system, and monitor its effectiveness. DIY solutions may also provide proper lawn drainage, but an expert will ensure your lawn is both attractive and healthy.

How Do You Drain A Swampy Lawn?

A swampy lawn can be drained by excavating the affected areas and adding drainage tiles or French drains to redirect water away from the area. Alternatively, adding sand or topsoil can help absorb excess moisture, while aeration and overseeding with grass seed can promote a healthier lawn.

What Causes Poor Yard Drainage? 

Poor yard drainage is typically caused by factors such as inadequate grading, clogged gutters and downspouts, hard surfaces that do not allow for water absorption, and a failing septic system. All of these issues can prevent proper drainage from the area, resulting in puddles and standing water. 

Who Installs Drainage Around the House?

Professional landscapers or contractors typically install drainage systems around houses. It is often best to hire a professional with the necessary experience and technical skills to ensure drainage is installed properly. At Ware Landscaping, we are proud to have 175 positive reviews, and we have been honored to serve the Chicago suburbs for over a decade.

Yard Drainage FAQs

Can I Fix the Yard Drainage Problem Myself?

Drainage problems in your basement can be hard to solve without professional help. Attempting to do it yourself may not be sufficient, as you may lack the skills and experience necessary to accurately identify all of the sources of the problem, find an ideal solution that is cost-effective, and correctly install a large drainage system.

At Ware Landscaping, we offer a free initial consultation so that you can understand the issue thoroughly before committing to our services. 

Why Is Drainage Important For Landscaping? 

Installing drainage around your home is essential for landscaping for a variety of reasons. It can protect plants and soil from damage caused by excess moisture, prevent flooding, reduce the number of pests in your yard, improve the look of your property, and protect your home’s foundation.

Does My Lawn Need To Be Regraded? 

Regrading your yard may be necessary if the lawn is waterlogged. A drainage expert can assess the situation and determine if this is the best solution. If so, they will adjust the slope of your property to allow excess water to flow away from your house and out to an appropriate drain or remote area.

I Already Have A Drainage System, But My Law Still Floods. What Can I Do? 

The experts at Ware can help you with water flow problems, even if a drainage system has already been installed. There may be issues due to broken pipes, changes in the environment or region, or installation mistakes. 

A professional drainage expert will assess the situation to determine if repair or replacement is needed to resolve the problem and ensure your lawn stays dry.

How Do I Choose the Right Drainage Solution For Different Areas Of My Property?

Choosing the right drainage solution for different areas of your property depends on various factors, including the slope of the land, soil type, existing landscaping features, and the source of the drainage problem. Common drainage solutions include French drains, surface drains, swales, grading and resloping, and rain gardens. 

A professional drainage contractor can assess your property and recommend the most suitable solution for each specific area based on these factors.

Will A French Drain Eliminate the Standing Water In My Basement? 

Most likely, yes. A French drain may be an effective solution for standing water in a basement. A professional drainage expert should assess the situation and determine if this type of drain is the best option, as some other solutions may be more suitable based on the specific circumstances.

What Is A Water Table? 

The water table is the upper level of an underground surface, where soil and rocks are saturated by water. Landscapers and property owners must be aware of their area’s water table level; high levels may require a drainage system to be installed. 

Water table levels can fluctuate due to environmental or human development, so regular upkeep from drainage solutions experts is recommended for long term results.

Do I Need A French Drain? 

Installing a French drain is an effective and affordable solution that takes care of drainage issues quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Once installed, the problem will be permanently eliminated so you won’t have to worry about it ever again. Our team can determine if this is the best lawn drainage solution for you. 

What Is the Best Time Of the Year To Install A Drainage System? 

Summer or fall is the best time of year to install a drainage system. Chicagoland is known for harsh winters, so taking proactive steps to prevent damage to your home’s foundation from a build-up of water due to excessive rain and the additional winter snowmelt makes sense. 

What maintenance is required for yard drainage systems?

Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the effectiveness and longevity of yard drainage systems. Maintenance tasks may include regular inspection of drains and outlets to ensure they are free of debris and obstruction, periodic cleaning of catch basins and grates, repairing any damaged or deteriorated components, and adjusting the system as needed to accommodate changes in landscaping or drainage patterns. 

Additionally, it’s important to monitor the system during heavy rainfall or snowmelt to ensure it is functioning properly and address any issues promptly. Regular maintenance by a professional landscaper or drainage contractor can help prevent costly repairs and preserve the integrity of your drainage system over time.

A white downspout installed

Additional Questions About Ware Drainage Solutions 

Are you facing water logging issues on your property? Do you need reliable drainage solutions to prevent erosion or flooding? Look no further than Ware Drainage Solutions. Here are some common queries potential customers might have:

Who Should I Contact For Emergency Drainage Problems In My Yard?

In the event of an emergency drainage problem in your yard, such as sudden flooding or water damage, you should contact a 24/7 emergency drainage service such as Ware Landscaping, or your local emergency services hotline. Our professionals are equipped to respond quickly to urgent drainage issues and provide immediate assistance to mitigate damage and restore proper drainage.

What Types Of Drainage Solutions Does Ware Provide? 

We provide a range of solutions for your yard’s specific needs. Here are the following types of drains we can offer: 

  • French drain: A trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from a problematic area.
  • Channel drain: A linear trench drain that collects water from a surface and directs it to a discharge point.
  • Dry wells: Underground structures that collect excess water and allow it to drain back into the soil gradually.
  • Sump pumps: Used to pump water out of a basement or crawl space to prevent water damage.
  • Retaining walls: Used to hold back soil and create flat, usable space while directing water flow.
  • Surface grading: The process of adjusting the slope of a lawn or garden to ensure water flows away from structures and into designated drain areas.

Is My Ware Yard Drainage Service Guaranteed? 

We offer a 10 year, no questions asked yard drainage guarantee. This means we promise that you will never have to worry about sitting water in your home again. If you encounter this issue again in the future, we will fix it free of charge.

What Is the Cost Of Installing a Drainage System In My Yard?

The cost of installing a drainage system in your yard can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of your yard, the severity of the drainage problem, the type of drainage solution needed, and local labor and material costs. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a comprehensive drainage system installation. It’s best to obtain quotes from multiple contractors to get an accurate estimate for your specific situation

How Long Does It Take To Improve Yard Drainage? 

The duration of yard drainage improvements varies based on the complexity of the problem and the necessary solution. Installing a French drain can take several days, while simpler fixes like gutters and downspouts may only require a few hours to complete. 

How Much Do Yard Drainage Services Cost?

We do not employ a risky one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the health and quality of your landscape. Our specialized drainage solutions team offers a free initial assessment to analyze the causes of your drainage problem and determine the best possible solution. Additionally, we tailor each of our drainage installation and repair projects to your property’s specific needs. 

What Areas Do We Serve? 

We serve Naperville and the surrounding cities and villages, including Lisle, Mount Prospect, Hinsdale, Oswego, Aurora, Glen Ellyn, Oak Brook, Palatine, St. Charles, Westmont, Barrington, Barrington Hills, Barrington Lake, Batavia, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Crystal Lake, Downers Grove, Geneva, Wheaton, and more.

Contact Us Today, For Help With Your Yard Drainage

Ware Landscaping stands as a testament to the power of family support and entrepreneurial spirit. Founded by Mike Ware in 2000, the company’s roots trace back to his teenage years, where he began mowing lawns in the neighborhood. With unwavering support from his parents since day one, Mike’s journey embodies the essence of hard work, dedication, and familial bond. 

Today, Ware Landscaping thrives as a successful business, rooted in the values instilled by Mike’s upbringing and the enduring support of his family. Contact us today for more information about what we can do for your yard.