Managing drainage issues in your yard helps maintain the integrity and safety of your home. Poor drainage can lead to a myriad of problems, including soil erosion, foundation damage, and even basement flooding. For Nashville homeowners facing landscape drainage challenges, the decision between tackling the problem as a DIY project or hiring drainage professionals can be daunting. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both approaches, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and capabilities.

Why Is Drainage Care Important?

Nashville has a humid climate and experiences frequent rainfall throughout the year, amounting to an average annual precipitation of over 47 inches. While greenery is a hallmark of the region, excessive water accumulation can wreak havoc on residential properties. Proper drainage landscaping prevents soil erosion, protects landscaping features, and safeguards the structural integrity of your home’s foundation. Without adequate drainage, water can seep into basements, crawl spaces, and other vulnerable areas, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards such as mold growth.

DIY Drainage Solutions

For homeowners who prefer a hands-on approach, there are several DIY drainage solutions to consider. These options typically cost less than hiring professional services but may require significant time, effort, and expertise to implement effectively. Here are a few common DIY drainage solutions:

• Gravel Beds: Adding gravel beds or a dry creek bed to low-lying areas can help absorb excess water and promote drainage. However, proper grading and installation are essential to prevent gravel displacement and maintain effectiveness.
• Swales: Shallow trenches, known as swales, can redirect water away from your home and toward a designated drainage area. Swales are effective for managing surface runoff but may not be effective enough if there are significant drainage problems. To create a large swale, specialized digging equipment may be needed in order to move enough soil. Some swales are also filled with plants that thrive in water-laden spaces due to their deep root systems, but you need to know what will do well in that environment.
• French Drains: French drain installation in Nashville is a common method to combat drainage issues. It consists of PVC pipes buried underground to collect and redirect water away from your property. While relatively simple in concept, installing a French drain requires careful planning and excavation, making it a more involved DIY project. A French drain in the wrong spot or position can make matters worse instead of better.

While DIY drainage solutions offer a cost-effective approach to managing minor drainage issues, they may not always provide long-lasting or comprehensive results, particularly for more complex problems. They also can be far more time-consuming between research, gathering tools or materials, and executing the work. Plus, without expertise in landscaping drainage, it’s difficult to understand the area and know which solutions will be effective. Homeowners who go the DIY route will need to perform diligent research and planning to prevent mistakes or redos.

Professional Drainage Solutions

For homeowners dealing with persistent drainage issues or seeking a more permanent solution, hiring a professional hardscaping contractor can offer several advantages. Professional drainage solutions are tailored to your specific property and drainage needs, ensuring effective water management and lasting results. Drainage professionals like Greenway of Nashville are able to assess your unique space and create a custom plan to address the issues. Some benefits of hiring a professional contractor for drainage services include:

• Expertise: Professional hardscaping contractors have the knowledge, skills, and equipment necessary to assess drainage problems accurately and recommend appropriate solutions. If permits are required in your area, local hardscaping contractors will already be familiar with the requirements and take care of obtaining them.
• Customization: Unlike DIY solutions, professional drainage systems can be customized to fit your property’s unique topography and drainage requirements, maximizing effectiveness and efficiency. Every project done by Greenway of Nashville is custom-made to the needs of our clients to guarantee the drainage problem is solved.
• Quality Materials: Professional contractors use high-quality materials and proven techniques to ensure the durability and longevity of drainage installations, reducing the need for future repairs or replacements. The upfront cost of higher-quality materials is offset by the extended lifespan and lower maintenance requirements.
• Value: Professional installation of drainage solutions provides greater value to prospective buyers who prefer contractor work instead of DIY. Having an expert handle your drainage project provides not just the value of a job well done but the value of saving you the effort. You get time back in your day by having professional help that is better spent on family, work, or hobbies.

“Work with skilled Nashville hardscaping and outdoor construction professionals who understand your vision and respect your schedule. Contact us for a free quote!”

Common Signs You Need Professional Help

While DIY efforts can address minor drainage issues, certain signs may indicate the need for professional intervention. Here are some common signs that an expert hand is needed:

• Persistent water pooling or standing water in your yard, especially if it is deep or broad
• Soil erosion or landscape damage near your home’s foundation that is changing your landscape
• Basement flooding or moisture problems, even if they seem minor
• Soggy or swampy areas in your yard, even during dry periods

If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to consult with professional drainage contractors to assess the situation and recommend appropriate drainage solutions.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Drainage System Around a House?

The cost of a landscaping drainage system varies widely—it can be anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the project type, the property size, and the materials needed. When weighing the costs of DIY vs. professional drainage solutions, it’s essential to consider upfront expenses, long-term value, and potential savings. While DIY projects may be cheaper initially, they can incur additional costs if not executed correctly or if repairs become necessary. On the other hand, professional drainage services may involve higher upfront costs but can offer greater peace of mind and a longer lifespan, making the total value a better deal.

Both DIY and professional drainage solutions have their merits, and the best approach depends on your specific needs, budget, and capabilities. For minor drainage issues or homeowners with the time and expertise to tackle DIY projects, DIY solutions may suffice. However, for homeowners seeking lasting results and professional expertise (or those who have more complex situations), hiring a professional hardscaping contractor is often the preferred option. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each approach and considering factors such as cost, expertise, and long-term value, Nashville homeowners can make informed decisions to address their drainage challenges effectively and maintain a healthy, safe, and beautiful outdoor environment.

The free consultations from Greenway of Nashville are the perfect way to decide what to do about your landscaping drainage. We’ll walk through your property with you, discussing the issues you’re facing and planning for the best ways to solve them. You’ll guide us toward the goal, and we’ll provide expertise and insight on the best path to get there. After the consultation, you receive a guaranteed quote from us, so you’ll know the exact cost of the project—no surprises. We pride ourselves on the transparency and service we bring to every home we have helped in the past 15 years, and we look forward to adding you to our growing list of thrilled customers. Give your property the drainage it deserves with help from Greenway of Nashville. You’ll be glad you did!

At Greenway of Nashville, we ensure proper drainage solutions are implemented correctly the first time, so you don’t have to deal with unsightly and dangerous recurring wet spots in your yard.

Our mission is simple: to provide high quality exterior work that our clients across Nashville can both enjoy and depend upon. Give us a call at (615) 238-4574, or complete our form so we can schedule a free, no-obligation onsite visit.

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