Yard Drainage and Ground Prep for Concrete: A Crucial First Step
- Isela
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
When preparing to pour concrete—whether it's for a driveway, patio, or walkway—managing yard drainage is not just a detail, it's a priority. Without proper water diversion, even the best concrete work can suffer from erosion, cracking, or foundation issues over time.
Take our recent hillside home project as an example: Before a single ounce of concrete was poured, we focused on protecting the foundation. First, the exterior walls were waterproofed. Then, we constructed a concrete gutter system along the side of the home to channel water safely away from the foundation and toward the city drainage system at the street. This step alone helps prevent pooling, erosion, and long-term water damage.
Common Yard Drainage Solutions
To ensure water drains away from the home properly, a combination of solutions may be needed:
Gutters and Downspouts: Redirect roof runoff away from the foundation.
Catch Basins and Area Drains: Collect surface water and connect it to underground piping.
Trench Drains: Ideal for directing water across paved surfaces.
French Drains: Installed underground to intercept and redirect water before it causes damage—especially useful near retaining walls or foundation walls.
Improving Existing Drainage
In many older homes, downspouts empty too close to the foundation. These should be repositioned or extended to direct water farther from the structure. Working with a qualified yard drainage contractor ensures these changes are both effective and code-compliant.
Final Prep Before Concrete
Once drainage systems are in place and functioning, the ground can be properly graded and compacted for concrete. This creates a stable base and ensures surface water continues to flow away from the structure—not toward it.
If you’re planning any concrete work on your property, start by evaluating your yard drainage. It’s a small investment that can protect your home for years to come.
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