If your yard is plagued with puddles and soggy spots, it might be time to consider drainage solutions. For yard drainage, there are plenty of DIY options you can handle without spending a fortune. Once you understand the causes of your drainage issues, you can find the best approach for improving a swamp situation.
Here is a basic guide to yard drainage issues and DIY solutions to consider:
Before you start researching strategies for improving drainage, take a careful assessment of your yard. There are many factors that can cause drainage issues:
Before you start planning a major landscaping project, consider your current watering schedule and systems. Do you have drip irrigation or sprinklers that run automatically? Do you have a manual watering schedule that you could adjust? In some cases, you might just be watering too much or too often.
If you have an irrigation or sprinkler system, make sure it doesn’t have any leaks. Once you’ve ruled out the possibility of leaking, try adjusting your watering schedule to reduce the amount of standing water in your yard.
If you discover that your drainage issues stem from your gutter downspout, the solution could be as simple as extending it. Extend and aim the downspout away from the home and toward a storm drain or other safe drainage source.
A rain garden is another way to ease drainage issues by creating a place specifically for water to gather. Rain gardens are designed to capture and slowly absorb runoff, all while promoting lush plant growth and beautifying the yard.
For more serious drainage problems, consider digging an artificial creek or swale to route water properly. By digging a long, shallow trench and filling it with gravel or rocks, you can divert runoff towards storm drains without allowing standing water to accumulate in the yard.
These are only a few basic yard drainage solutions to consider. If you’re still having trouble with excess water, it’s a good idea to consult a landscaping professional to find the best option for your yard.
Active in residential brokerage since 1985, Michael enjoys a loyal following of past buyers and sellers. Prior to entering brokerage, he studied culinary arts and managed restaurants in the Boston area. Born and raised in Newton, Michael is very familiar with the Greater Boston area. His seven-day-a-week commitment to his profession serves his clients and customers well. His educational background includes The Johnson & Wales Culinary Institute, The Lee Institute for Real Estate, and The Tom Hopkins and Floyd Wickman Sales Training courses.
In recognition of his completion of the prescribed courses in real estate practice and ethics, Michael has earned the distinguished GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute) designation. He continues his long-standing membership in the National Association of Realtors and is an avid fly fisherman, musician, and outdoor enthusiast.
Michael was awarded the International President's Circle Award for sales expertise, market knowledge, and dedication to clients for 2020 and 2021. In 2022 and 2023 he was awarded the International Presidents Elite Award, representing the Top 2% of Hammond Residential & Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide, for demonstrating exceptional sales production, ambition and his commitment to the Real Estate Industry.