If you are asking yourself – why is there standing water in my yard, and how can I get rid of it? Well, you’re in luck. In this article, we will give you the answers to these questions. We’ll look at how water accumulates in your yard and turns into standing water, why it can become a problem, and how to take care of it.
What is Standing Water?
Standing water in a yard is a pool of water that remains stagnant and does not drain away or evaporate. It can occur for various reasons, such as poor drainage, clogged gutters, or heavy rainfall. As a result, it can damage your yard or the foundation of a house. In some cases, it can also create a safety hazard, such as if it is deep enough that someone could fall in and become trapped.
What Does Standing Water Look Like? How do I Identify It?
Standing water typically appears as a still, shallow pool of water. The color of the water may range from clear to murky, depending on the source and how long the water has been standing. The size and shape of the pool may also vary depending on the location, but it is generally an area of water that is not flowing or moving in any way.
It can be found in low-lying areas or where water has been collected or pooled, such as a depression in the yard or around a foundation. In addition, the water might have a film of green, blue, or black colored scum on the surface or be surrounded by vegetation or tall grasses.
It is important to note that standing water can also be underground, like water table level, not visible on the surface. Still, it can cause damage to the foundation of the house over time and cause a health hazard if it leads to mold growth in the structure.
How Standing Water Can Damage Your Yard
If standing water is not adequately drained from a yard, it can lead to several problems. Some of the potential issues include:
Mosquito Breeding
Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests, which can become a nuisance and a health hazard.
Damage to Lawn and Plants
Standing water can damage the lawn and plants, suffocating the roots and killing the grass or plants. It can also lead to fungal growth and other diseases, further damaging the plants.
Erosion
Standing water can cause erosion of the soil, as the water can wash away the topsoil, leaving bare patches in the yard.
Foundation Damage
If standing water is allowed to collect around a house’s foundation, it can damage the foundation over time.
Safety Hazards
If the standing water is deep or in an area where people walk, it can create a safety hazard, as someone could slip and fall.
Bad Smell
If the standing water is not treated, it can cause a foul smell, and the water might not be safe for the environment.
Properly draining standing water and preventing its accumulation is important to maintain a safe and healthy yard and avoid damage to the property.
What Is the Best Way To Drain Standing Water From Your Yard?
There are several methods for draining standing water from a yard, depending on the cause of the water and the specific location.
Some of the Most Common Ways To Drain Standing Water Include:
- Improving Drainage – This can include installing drainage ditches, French drains, or swales, which are all methods of redirecting water away from low-lying areas and into a drainage system.
- Clearing Gutters and Downspouts – Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up and collect in the yard, so it’s important to clear them out and ensure they function properly.
- Regrading – If the standing water is due to poor grading in the yard, regarding the area to ensure proper drainage away from the house can help prevent water from pooling.
- Installing a Sump Pump – If the standing water is due to a high water table or a problem with the foundation of the house, installing a sump pump can help pump the water out of the yard.
- Using a Water Pump – If the water is in a confined area, like a hole, a water pump can remove the water into a suitable location.
- Aeration – Aerating your lawn can increase water infiltration and reduce standing water.
It is important to identify the source of the water and the cause before attempting to drain it. This way, you can have a more efficient and effective solution. Depending on the situation, professional help may be needed.
Why You Should Use a Professional to Rid Your Yard of Standing Water
Using a professional to rid your yard of standing water can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Accurate Diagnosis – A professional can help identify the source of the standing water and the cause of the problem. This is important because the solution might not be effective without an accurate diagnosis, and the problem might persist.
- Expertise and Experience – Professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the situation and implement the appropriate solution properly. They can also provide recommendations for long-term preventative measures to help prevent the standing water from recurring.
- Time and Cost-Effectiveness – A professional can get the job done quickly and efficiently, potentially saving you time and money in the long run. They have the necessary equipment and skills to get the job done correctly, minimizing the need for multiple rounds of repairs.
- Safety Concerns – Drainage problems can be potentially hazardous for your property and the people living or working in the area. A professional can identify safety hazards and take steps to eliminate them.
- Compliance with Regulations – There might be local regulations or code requirements that need to be met when trying to fix drainage issues. A professional can ensure that the work is done in compliance with these regulations, avoiding fines or penalties.
- Proper Maintenance – A professional can also provide a maintenance plan to avoid future problems, ensuring that the drainage system is working properly, and allowing them to detect and fix any issues before they become severe.
Using a professional to rid your yard of standing water can provide peace of mind, ensure the job is done correctly, and save you time and money in the long run.
LaytonScape
LaytonScape has highly qualified professionals ready to transform your yard and turn it into a lush landscape that will highlight your beautiful home. If you are experiencing issues with standing water, contact us and let us help you irradicate the issue, which will prevent more significant problems down the road. Call us @ (801) 430-1202 today!
