If water keeps pooling in your yard, there’s a good chance the slope of your land is working against you. Grading and drainage are two of the most effective ways to manage runoff and prevent summer damage. When done correctly, they help water move away from your home, not into it.
At Ayala Landscapes Construction LLC, we fix soggy lawns and flooded patios with custom grading plans and built-in drainage systems designed for your space.
Why Grading and Drainage Go Hand in Hand
What Is Yard Grading?
Grading refers to shaping the land so water flows in the right direction. A proper grade tilts slightly away from your house, usually dropping 1 inch for every 10 feet.
What Happens Without Grading?
If your yard is flat or slopes toward the home, water pools around the foundation, seeps into basements, or floods low areas. It can also lead to soil erosion and plant loss.
Why Drainage Matters
Even with good grading, some areas need help moving water. Built-in drainage solutions for landscaping like French drains, dry wells, or creek beds can take over when gravity isn’t enough.
Signs Your Yard Needs Regrading
Pooling Water After Every Rain
If puddles stick around for more than a day or two, your yard likely has low spots or improper slope.
Mildew, Mold, or Foundation Cracks
Water near your house foundation is a red flag. Long-term exposure can cause major structural issues.
Erosion Around Walkways or Plants
Water that flows the wrong way takes soil and mulch with it. You might notice exposed roots or shifting stones.
Solutions That Fix Slope and Drainage
Yard Regrading
We remove high spots and fill in low ones to help water flow naturally. This is often the first step when correcting soggy lawns or protecting your foundation.
Drainage Trenches and French Drains
Once the grade is fixed, we add drainage features that help move excess water faster. French drains are hidden underground, while trenches are topped with decorative gravel.
Strategic Landscaping Additions
Landscape elements like retaining walls or dry creek beds can support both beauty and function. See how our backyard landscaping ideas in Spanaway include grading fixes and water solutions.
FAQs – Grading and Drainage
How do I know if my yard needs regrading?
Watch for standing water, dead spots in your lawn, or signs of erosion. These often point to grading issues.
Can poor drainage be fixed without regrading?
In some cases, yes. If the grade is close, drainage pipes or surface solutions may work. A professional evaluation helps you decide.
Who should I call to fix yard grading and drainage?
Ayala Landscapes Construction LLC offers full-service grading and drainage help across Spanaway. We’ll assess your property and build a plan that works long-term.
Get Ahead of Summer Water Damage with Ayala Landscapes Construction LLC
Don’t wait for the next rainstorm to fix your yard. Grading and drainage are key to protecting your outdoor space and your home. Whether it’s reshaping your lawn or adding custom drains, we’ve got the tools to help.
View all our landscaping and drainage services and contact us today for your personalized yard assessment.