Drainage can be an issue for homes in Arizona and it is important to be aware of potential issues so you can prevent major drainage problems that could cost you a lot of money. It is especially important to be aware of potential issues you could inadvertently create when landscaping or working on your backyard.
One key thing to look out for is the grading of your property, and if your home is in a lower area that water might flow towards. If this is the case it can make your home vulnerable and it’s very important that you have appropriate drainage system in place to protect the foundation of your home.
It is also important to be aware if you have a wash on your property. These are designed to keep the flow of water away from your home and other buildings. Ongoing maintenance is important to ensure that the wash is free of debris and objects so water can flow freely in the event of a storm.
With regard to landscaping and working on your backyard here are some key drainage tips for Arizona homes:
- Any landscaping you do should not interfere with the existing drainage pattern on your property.
- Don’t over-excavate your land. If you are changing the layout, for example adding mounds or lowering areas, you need to ensure that water still drains away from your home.
- Hire a professional, licensed, bonded, and experienced landscaper or contractor or pool decking company to ensure that any work done takes into consideration drainage, grading, and potential erosion.
- When landscaping, keep any plants that require a lot of water away from the foundations of your home.
Another drainage issue to look out for on your property is pooling and stagnant water, especially during the winter rainy season and the summer monsoons in Arizona. If you spot any areas, look at the drainage and what can be done to avoid water pooling. Stagnant water not only causes damage it also attracts insects.
Roof runoff is another potential drainage issue in Arizona. Maintaining your gutters, and ensuring they are operating effectively, and clear of debris, is very important to ensure that water drains appropriately and away from your home.
Last, but not least, look out for flooding in your backyard when your sprinkler is in operation. This is a sign that you need to fix your irrigation system and address potential drainage issues.
Now that you are more aware of the various drainage issues that could affect your Arizona property, it is time to take action and check for any existing issues and then reach out for any help you might need to address them. If you have any questions about drainage improvements in your backyard, please give us a call or send us an email. The Imagine Architectural Concrete team has helped many homeowners correct drainage problems in their backyards and protect their most valuable asset, their home.