How to redirect rainwater away from my house?

 
Assess Your Property’s Drainage
 

Begin by evaluating your property’s natural slope and identifying areas where water tends to accumulate. Understanding the flow of rainwater around your home is the first step toward redirecting it. Look for low-lying areas and potential obstacles that might affect water movement. This assessment can be done through a simple water test by observing how water flows during light rain or by hiring a specialist for a professional evaluation.

• Examine the grading of your yard to ensure it slopes away from your home.
• Identify obstacles such as large trees or landscaping that might impede natural water flow.
• Determine natural water pockets that could lead to pooling near your foundation.

 
Install and Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
 

One of the most effective measures for redirecting rainwater is a well-maintained gutter system connected to downspouts. Gutters collect rainwater from your roof, and downspouts channel it away from your home. Extension attachments or splash blocks further guide the water to a safe distance from the foundation.

• Clean gutters regularly to prevent clogs and overflows.
• Ensure downspouts are securely attached and pointing away from the house.
• Use downspout extensions or splash blocks to disperse water several feet from your foundation.

 
Implement Landscaping Solutions
 

Landscaping can play an important role in managing rainwater effectively. Consider incorporating a rain garden or installing permeable paving materials. Strategic landscaping not only enhances curb appeal but also channels water away from vulnerable areas.

• Create a rain garden with native, water-tolerant plants to temporarily absorb runoff.
• Install swales—shallow, carefully designed slopes—to guide water towards drainage areas.
• Utilize permeable pavers for driveways or walkways which allow water infiltration rather than runoff.

 
Consider Drainage Systems
 

If natural drainage and gutters are not enough, installing dedicated drainage systems may be necessary. French drains, catch basins, or even dry wells can help divert excess water away from your home. These systems collect water, filter it through layers of gravel or other materials, and disperse it safely.

• A French drain is a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that directs water away.
• Catch basins collect larger volumes of water and connect to underground drainage pipes.
• Dry wells collect water and allow it to percolate slowly into the ground.

 
Maintain the System Regularly
 

Even the best-designed systems require regular maintenance to function efficiently. Routine inspections and cleanings prevent blockages and structural issues that can undermine your drainage efforts.

• Inspect gutters, downspouts, and drainage channels after heavy rains to check for debris.
• Maintain vegetation in rain gardens and swales to prevent overgrowth that can hinder water flow.
• Periodically check the condition of drains and pipes, and repair any damage promptly.

Residents in St. Louis and Nashville understand that a well-maintained drainage system is essential for protecting both property and landscaping from water-related damage.