March 16, 2022

Water drainage issues are a common problem for homeowners this time of year. If your lawn has standing water after it rains, or when snow begins to melt in early spring, it can lead to fungal growth, mosquitoes, property damage, and more. There are numerous issues that can lead to drainage problems. If you only focus on the standing water and how to get rid of it, you won’t solve the problem. Identifying what’s causing issues with your lawn’s drainage is the first step towards fixing it.

Soggy unused area of a residential lawn after a spring rain.

Common Reasons for Water Drainage Problems

Poor Soil Drainage

One of the most common causes of water drainage problems in lawns is poor soil structure. If your soil doesn’t drain well, it will quickly become saturated, which will prevent water from flowing away from your lawn. As a result, your lawn will become waterlogged and will struggle to dry out. To prevent this, you may be able to amend your soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its drainage. If you have high clay content in your soil, amending it may prove to be very difficult and you’ll need a better solution.

Improper Grading

If your property was not graded properly when it was built, it can lead to water pooling and collecting where you don’t want it. To address this problem, you may need to have your property regraded by a professional.

Poor Irrigation

If you’re not watering your lawn properly or inconsistently, it can cause the soil to become waterlogged. The easiest solution for this issue is to install an automated irrigation system. Doing so will help to ensure that your lawn is getting the right amount of water at the right time.

Too Much Vegetation

Another common cause of water drainage problems is too much vegetation. If you have a lot of trees or other plants near your lawn, they can prevent the water from flowing away. This will cause the water to pool on your lawn, which will eventually lead to drainage problems. You’ll want to trim back any overhanging branches and remove any excess vegetation near your lawn to help solve this issue.

Debris in Gutters and Downspouts

If you have debris in your gutters or downspouts, it can prevent water from flowing away from your lawn properly. Simply cleaning out your gutters and downspouts on a regular basis can help to prevent this from happening.

Improperly Installed Drainage Systems

If your drainage system wasn’t installed properly, it can lead to water drainage problems in your lawn. For example, if the drainage pipes are clogged or if the grading around the drainage system isn’t correct, it can prevent water from flowing away properly. You can fix this problem by having your drainage system inspected and repaired.

Landscaping Features

Finally, certain landscaping features can also lead to water drainage problems in your lawn. For example, if you have a pond or a waterfall on your property, it can divert water away from your lawn and cause drainage issues. You can solve this problem by installing a drainage system around these features.

How to Solve Drainage Issues for Good

If you’re experiencing water drainage problems in your lawn, it’s important to identify the cause and take steps to fix it. If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, it’s a good idea to speak with a professional who can help you diagnose and solve the issue. Contact us at Twin Oaks Landscape in Ann Arbor, MI. to schedule an appointment to discuss your drainage options today.