My yard is flooding

 FAQ: My yard is flooding. How should I fix it?

Rainwater flooding your yard after a storm can create more than just a mess. If the drainage in your yard isn’t properly handled it could lead to flooding in your basement, crawlspace or even into your home. Here are a few steps that you can take to prevent water from becoming a problem:

1. Be sure that your lawn slopes toward the drainage runnoff. If not it may need to be re-graded or have topsoil added to low areas.

2. If the soil stays wet for a few days after a rain you may need a french drain. Most homeowners with some basic skills can install a small french drain with a shovel and materials from the local hardware store. More advanced drains may require professional installation.

3. In low areas where rain collects and causes flooding, you should install catch basins to collect the water. Catch basins, also called area drains, can be purchased at most local hardware stores. Attach the catch basin to a pipe and direct the water to a disposal point.

4. If storm water is flooding a patio or walkway you may need a channel drain. This is a bit more of an advanced level project and requires specialized tools so we reccomend that you leave this one to the specialists.