Yard Flooding and Your Home
6/28/2022 (Permalink)
Yard Flooding and Your Residence
Most homeowners in College Station, TX, see a well-kept lawn and garden as an aesthetic consideration. However, a number of landscaping practices can help to prevent outside flooding and consequent property damage. Read on to discover more about this interconnection.
1. Grade
The grade or slope of your yard is the degree to which the surface level of the soil falls in elevation as you move away from the foundation of the home. Most houses compliant with local codes will have a gentle slope that directs water away from the base of the house. However, minor problems can develop with slight inconsistencies in the landscaping. If you notice water beginning to pool around your home during a rain storm, especially if it begins to leak through the outer walls, there are a few preventative steps you can take.
2. Gutters
One easy and inexpensive fix for outside flooding problems is to clean the gutters to guarantee that no water is spilling over. A high volume of water pouring directly over the edge of the gutter instead of out the downspout indicates the existence of a clog. Most hardware stores sell extensible tools or attachments that can clean gutters and downspouts without any unwanted damage to roofing materials.
3. Soil and Cover
Sometimes the rain drainage issues occur farther from the base of the house. In these cases, extra soil and strategic planting can come in handy. Use heavier mulches and gravel in areas where you notice high water retention or fast water flow that tends to cause erosion. Hedges and small trees can also help hold finer soil types together, preventing your hard landscaping work from washing down the storm drain.
Being prepared doesn’t have to cost you an excessive amount of time or money. Remember, if you get out of your depth during an outside flooding event, have the contact information of a qualified cleanup industry professional at the ready.