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Drainage Experts
Have trust in the value of Ski's Landscaping's years of experience to find out the right drainage solution for your excessive water problem. We use our expertise in drainage systems and French drains to deal with special, difficult, and unique drainage problems. We specialize in French Drains, Downspouts, and Yard Drains but no matter what drain system we install, our goal is to stop the water from getting to your house at all and to stop your yard from becoming a swampy mess.
French Drains
There are two types of French drains: indoor French drains and exterior French drains. The exterior variety is a good first defense against wet basements and soggy lawns, so it’s a good place for homeowners to start.The design is simple: French drains are trenches with perforated pipes in them that are covered with rocks. The trench is angled away from the home so that it can collect excess groundwater and surface water and route it away from the basement. The exit point for the water is at the drain’s lowest point.
How Do French Drains Work?
No matter where it is, water always seeks the lowest point and drains readily into loose soil and air pockets. French drains provide an easy, accessible path for the water by adding a sunken channel filled with freely draining gravel, which encourages the water to drain out of the surrounding soil. This reduces the static water pressure on basement walls, which helps to prevent leaks and seepage and keeps them dry.
To drain correctly, the trench and pipe must use the force of gravity to remove water from saturated soil and pull it toward an acceptable discharge point. Acceptable discharge points vary by property, but they can include:
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drainage ditches
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dry wells
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low-lying drainage fields
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the street
On properties that are not located on slopes, sump pumps may be required to move the water away from the house. These pumps can move the water against the force of gravity to storm sewers, dry wells, or existing septic systems.
Signs a French Drain is Needed
Homeowners want to know that they are getting their money’s worth, and there’s nothing wrong with that. French drains can be very helpful in tackling drainage problems, but they aren’t always necessary. Here are a few warning signs of drainage issues to look out for that can help homeowners decide whether it’s time to investigate options:
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basement flooding during or after periods of heavy rain or snowmelt
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musty smells in the basement, which can indicate mold and mildew growth
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visible seepage or leaks
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water stains on basement walls or floors
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high humidity in the basement
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standing water in the yard
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over-saturated soils
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foundation cracks
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lack of other approved drainage and basement waterproofing systems
Still not sure whether it’s worth the time and money to install a drainage system? The best thing to do is to consult a drainage and basement waterproofing contractor and schedule a professional inspection. As professionals, we know what to look for when it comes to signs and symptoms of improper drainage so it’s likely that seeking professional advice will make the need for drainage clearer.
Yard Drains
Standing water in your yard can kill grass and other plants, ruining your landscape. It can also be a health hazard, harboring mosquito larvae and other pests. If you have a problem with poor drainage in your yard we can solve that for you by providing various different yard drain solutions, such as French drains, graded drains, and catch basins.
If you think you have a water problem in your yard or around your house but aren't sure it is always best to have a professional take a look to make sure so that you don't have issues in the future. At Skis, we will come out and take a look to give you more information and the peace of mind you need.
Downspouts
Downspouts are drainage pipes that direct rain water from the roof to the ground. This is where the rainwater is lead away from the building's foundation so that no rainwater is able to pool around the building. Downspouts can be extremely crucial to keep water away from your house, without a downspout or the proper downspout installed, the chances of water infiltrating your home increases dramatically.
