Waterfalls

Understanding the Basics of Proper Water Drainage

Property drainage refers to the process of directing water away from a building or property to prevent water accumulation, flooding, and damage. It involves the design, installation, and maintenance of systems and structures that facilitate the flow of water away from the property, ensuring that it doesn’t accumulate around the foundation, walls, or other areas.

Effective property drainage is crucial to prevent various issues, including:

1. Water damage: Water accumulation can seep into the building, causing damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.
2. Foundation problems: Water can erode the soil around the foundation, leading to structural issues, cracks, and settlement problems.
3. Pest and rodent infestations: Standing water can attract pests and rodents, which can lead to health hazards and property damage.
4. Landscaping and erosion: Poor drainage can cause soil erosion, leading to loss of landscaping, gardens, and outdoor features.
5. Health and safety risks: Standing water can create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which can spread diseases like Zika, dengue, and chikungunya.

Common property drainage solutions include:

1. Gutters and downspouts: Collecting and directing rainwater away from the building.
2. French drains: A trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from the property.
3. Swales: Shallow ditches that collect and filter rainwater, allowing it to infiltrate the soil slowly.
4. Rain gardens: Depressions in the ground that collect and filter rainwater, often featuring plants that thrive in wet conditions.
5. Sump pumps and backup systems: Mechanisms that pump water out of the property, often used in areas with high water tables or flooding risks.

Proper property drainage is essential to maintain the integrity of a building, prevent water-related issues, and ensure a safe and healthy living environment.

Need help with surveying your property for drainage concerns and a professional team who can create solutions? Please reach out to our team, servicing the following communities: Fenton, St. Louis, Ladue, Chesterfield, St. Charles, and Lake St. Louis.

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