When you step out after a rain and find your yard turned into a shallow pool, it’s a huge inconvenience. And, if you’re living in the UK, this inconvenience can be a daily issue.
The UK is one of the wettest regions in the world with an average yearly rainfall of 1,242.1 mm. That means floods are frequent, and waterlogging is just another Tuesday for people living here.
But can puddles of water around your home be the cause of a big headache? Let us explain why you should worry about it.
Why is Waterlogging Such a Big Problem?
Of course, while waterlogging doesn’t sound that dangerous, it is. It can damage your home’s foundation, kill your plants, and ruin your yards or lawns. Waterlogging can even create a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In fact, recently, in the UK, cases of mosquito-borne viruses have more than doubled.
So yes, waterlogging is a big problem that often sneaks up on homeowners. With that in mind, here are the things you can do and questions you can ask to solve the waterlogging issue around your property.
Understand the Source of the Problem
Before rushing into solutions, it’s important to understand why your property is retaining water. The cause may not always be obvious.
Sometimes the slope of your yard isn’t directing water away from your house. In other cases, compacted soil or poor drainage systems can trap water near the surface.
To find the source, observe where water pools after rainfall. Check your gutters, downspouts, and any nearby storm drains. If water is collecting in one area, it might mean your drainage system is clogged or misdirected.
You’ll need to determine whether the problem lies in the yard’s layout or the drainage system itself before making any major fixes.
Call Professionals to Check the Drains
If your property has an existing drainage system but water still collects, you might be dealing with a blocked or broken pipe.
Professionals have specialised tools to inspect drain lines and spot issues you can’t see. According to Proline Drainage Ltd, such professional services are a must for homeowners who struggle with recurring blockages. They can locate clogs, collapsed pipes, or misconnected sections that are stopping water from flowing properly.
Getting your drains inspected early can prevent costly damage to your foundation and lawn. Some drain cleaning services even operate around the clock to help homeowners facing urgent waterlogging problems. A drain cleaning company offering 24-hour drain cleaning can clear clogged drains instantly and effectively. These experts use advanced tools for drain cleaning, ensuring your drainage system runs smoothly again.
Relying on professional drain cleaning services can save you from severe water damage and keep your home safe during heavy rainfall.
Improve the Slope Around Your Home
If your yard slopes toward your house, it’s only natural for water to settle there. Regrading the soil is one of the simplest fixes. The idea is to make sure the ground slopes gently away from the foundation, allowing water to flow outward.
You can use a shovel to move soil from areas near your home and pile it further out in your yard. However, grading can be tricky if you have a large property or a lot of landscaping.
It’s worth consulting a professional landscaper to ensure the slope is even and stable. A poorly done grading job might cause more drainage issues than it solves.
Are You Cleaning and Maintaining Your Gutters Regularly?
Many homeowners overlook their gutters until they overflow during a storm. When gutters are clogged with leaves or debris, rainwater spills over and lands near the foundation. This can contribute to waterlogging around the base of your home.
Usually, cleaning your gutters twice a year should be good enough. However, experts suggest that you not stick to this number religiously. Instead, clean as necessary, which means if it’s raining a lot, clean the gutters when you get the time.
Also, check that your downspouts extend several feet away from your house. If they end too close, install extensions to redirect water farther away. Regular maintenance ensures rainwater is channelled properly instead of pooling around your walls.
Install a French Drain or Dry Well
In England alone, the frequency of flash floods could surge by up to 66 per cent within the next 25 years. If your property frequently floods, you may need a more permanent drainage solution.
A French drain is buried underground, so it doesn’t interfere with your landscape’s look. A dry well, on the other hand, allows excess water to collect in a chamber underground, where it slowly seeps into the soil.
Both systems work well for homes with persistent drainage problems. However, installing them requires careful planning and often professional help to ensure the slope, depth, and placement are correct.
Plant Strategically to Absorb Excess Water
Plants can be powerful allies in controlling waterlogging. Deep-rooted plants, native grasses, and shrubs absorb a lot of water and help stabilise the soil. They also reduce erosion, especially in sloped areas where rainwater tends to rush downhill.
Consider creating a rain garden with moisture-loving plants such as ferns, iris, or sedges. These plants thrive in damp conditions and naturally help regulate water flow in your yard. Besides being practical, rain gardens also add beauty and attract pollinators.
Any Leaks in Outdoor Plumbing?
Sometimes, the source of excess water isn’t rain at all. A leaking outdoor faucet, sprinkler, or underground pipe can saturate the soil and mimic waterlogging. Monitor your water usage and inspect your outdoor fixtures regularly.
If your water bill suddenly increases without explanation, you might have an unseen leak. Calling a plumber to check your lines can save you from further complications and unnecessary water waste.
Waterlogging around your home is a problem that can worsen if left unattended. From minor puddles to major drainage failures, the issue demands quick attention.
With consistent maintenance and timely repairs, you can protect your property from water damage. At the same time, you can preserve your landscape and keep your home dry no matter how hard it rains.