Soggy lawns are a problem to be addressed! Read on for the three different types of problems and solutions.
Maryland summers have a tendency toward warmer temperatures, humidity, and plenty of thunderstorms. With the recent flash flood warnings (two in one week in July 2019), a few of us may have experienced some more-than-desired water on the lawn. In our wet and warm climate, we have all the more reason to make sure that our yards have the right drainage system so that they remain happy and healthy.
Why Does a Drainage System Matter?
You might think having a few spots where the lawn collects water when it rains is okay. However, it is a problem that needs addressing. Dangers that can result from poor draining include overpopulation of mosquitoes, dead or dying plants, and unstable soil. Mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in standing water, the sun cannot reach submerged plants as well, and permanently wet soil can turn into erosion. If you grow crops, standing water can promote mold growth on the plants. Even more dangerous is the threat that such flooding poses to crawl spaces and basements. If you see standing water on your property, be sure to take care of it.
Three Drainage System Problems and Solutions
Thankfully, there is a solution. In fact, depending on the type of problem, there are three possible solutions. Below are the three types of drainage problems and how to fix them.
Surface Water: Surface water collects typically in areas with clay soil, which is harder and stickier than sandy or loamy soils, and so retains water better. A surface drainage system considers the slope of the ground itself, and either a French drain or a Surface drain. A French drain is good for carrying out smaller amounts of water, while a Surface drain carries out more water in less time. Both of these are underground trench systems.
High Water Table: A High Water table is the boundary between saturated soil and unsaturated soil. There are several drainage system solutions: plastic piping, underground channels, and raising the ground level.
Hardpan Layer: A hardpan layer is a water-resistant layer of soil below the topsoil. Digging a trench that pierces beneath this level into the soil that can soak up water is the typical way to deal with this. This is called a gradient drainage system.
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For the past ten years, Edwards Lawn and Home has been offering premier residential and services to improve your property all year long. The options are endless from a new patio to a backyard fire pit, let the winners of Angie’s List Super Service Aware serve you! If you’re interested in finding out more about our services or getting a quote, you can contact us online or give us a call at 443-341-6539. For more information about our services or DIY tips and tricks follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Houzz.