Though your drainage issues may not be worthy of media headlines, they will be big to you if you don’t catch them in time to stop costly problems. If it is as simple as managing runoff with underground gutter extensions from your home or building or french drains added to your lawn, timely scrutiny will save your pocketbook.
If not so simple, it might require the digging of a canal or retention pond, or even installing culverts or a stormwater or reclamation system. Either way, you will be far better off to anticipate that a fix is needed before rushing water from a tropical storm results in damage to structures or expensive landscaping.
Seek out a reputable contractor who not only understands the problem itself but can also look at the whole picture and make suggestions that won’t result in different problems. Ask your contractor if he has any recommendations beyond those mentioned. For instance:
· Minimizing impervious surfaces on your property
· Lining surfaces with gravel trenches
· Using the water that drains off your roof, like rain barrels or cisterns
· Replacing grass areas with native plants
· Adding organic material to your soil
Whatever you do, don’t let it go until you have further costly damage. Watch for water damage signs in your structure and lawn. Get a drainage check once a year for early detection. And get expert advice so it’s done right!
