Invisible but Costly
Drainage problems are among the most insidious in landscaping. Water pooling near your foundation causes leaks, mold, cracks and destroys outdoor work. In Quebec, with heavy precipitation and spring snowmelt, good drainage is essential.
Warning Signs
Outside: puddles lasting 24+ hours, soggy spots, moss, erosion, yellow or thin sod in low areas, efflorescence on foundations, sinking patio or driveway pavers.
Inside: basement damp or mildew smell, water stains on walls, foundation cracks, peeling paint, efflorescence on concrete.
Common Causes
- Grading: slope should be ≥2% away from the house for the first 6 feet
- Gutters and downspouts: must discharge 6+ feet from the foundation
- Clay soil: drains poorly
Solutions
1. Re-grading: $500–$2,000, best paired with new sod 2. French drain: $2,000–$6,000, needs careful excavation 3. Dry well: $1,000–$3,000 4. Rain garden: $1,500–$4,000
When to Call a Pro
Water inside, foundation damage, major re-grading, foundation drain, municipal system involvement, or when you can't identify the source.