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Water Problems? Where Is the Real Problem?

I wanted to talk to you about water issues that most of us don't even think about. We see basements getting flooded and immediately call a sealer or a landscaper to install some irrigation pipes. That really is just a quick fix. Let's solve the problem at the source(s.) I think of them as the GGGS- Gutters, Grading, Growing roots, and Soil. These all can take a factor in why we are having some water issues. The first one is easiest and often missed, gutters. Clean them out! If you see a little tree growing in there, that is not a good sign! Clogged gutters impede the drainage problem and literally spill out over the edge right down towards your basement. If there aren't any leaves or debris, check to see if the gutters are undersized. Secondly, look at the  grade near your house. Does your lawn slope into your house? This permits the surface water to glide down into your basement with ease. Landscapers can easily re-grade your lawn to amend this problem. Growing Roots of shrubs and trees near the house is the third problem. They can cause cracks in your foundation. They also allow water to be blocked from running away from your house and again allows the water to run right down to your basement! If your soil becomes waterlogged, it can cause root decay too. Lastly, the type of soil you have factors in how the rain is drained. You might have hardpan (heavily compacted soil that does not allow water to drain through.)  One example is Clay soil which does not permit water to freely run down into the soil. Call your landscaper to check out the soil and add necessary amendments/organic matter. They might even have to dig out some for you and/or replace with a better soil. Lastly, remember to aerate. Let your lawn breathe! In addition, aeration also allows water to soak down into the ground where it should go.

For more information check out these articles:

"How to Correct Excessive Soil Moisture and Drainage Problems"

http://articles.extension.org/pages/67756/how-to-correct-excessive-soil-moisture-and-drainage-problems 

"Things That Contribute to Drainage Problems in a Yard" http://homeguides.sfgate.com/things-contribute-drainage-problems-yard-87984.html