Drainage problems need to be addressed as soon as possible, as they can cause expensive damage if they are not repaired immediately. Structural damage caused by poor drainage can lead to cracks and settling in the foundation which in turn can cause cracks and settling of the entire structure. The soil can expand or contract by as much as 30% in severe cases.
Repairing damage to foundations are frequently not covered by your insurance. Since this type of damage can cost as much as $ 20,000 to $ 30,000 or more to fix, it is best to repair the underlining drainage problem at its earliest stage. Other damage can include damages to flooring, flooded carpets, drywall, door jams, bricks, etc.
Soil erosion is another effect of poor drainage. Loss of topsoil can ruin thousands of dollars of landscaping. It can also create ugly and dangerous depressions or "ditches" which will continue to expand until the core problem is fixed.
The most obvious indication of a drainage problem is water pooling on the ground and is most serious when this occurs anywhere near the structure. This could be caused by improper grading, poor soil conditions, or water runoff from an adjunct property.
The first step in correcting the problem is making sure you have found the real cause. An experienced grading contractor will typically visit your site at no cost and determine the cause, explain what needs to be done, and give you an estimate of what it will take to repair the drainage problem.
Proper grading will usually solve most drainage problems. The most important areas to grade are the ones within ten feet of your foundation, but the entire site needs to be evaluated to eliminate recurrence of the problem ,.
A typical grade should be about have a drop of at least one inch per foot for the first ten feet from the foundation and then a gradual downward slope in order to keep the water flowing away from the foundation.
Drainage problems can also be solved by installing rip rap rock, matting, shrubs, or drain pipes. Erosion can often be controlled by installing erosion mats. These can hold the soil in place until it gets established. On commercial sites and some residential sites you can install BMP ponds (rain gardens). This is a way that helps clean and filter the water runoff and looks nice with plants and trees.