Nashville homeowners are no strangers to the unpredictable weather patterns that can lead to heavy rainfall. While the lush greenery is a nice benefit, too much rainfall leads to standing water that can pose a significant threat to our properties. There’s nothing worse than soggy ground that never dries and leads to expensive damage. We will answer the question, “What are the harmful effects of stagnant water?” as well as highlight solutions that can solve standing water problems and go over why hiring professional drainage contractors is a wise investment for Nashville homeowners.

What Happens When Water Is Stagnant?

Water that sits on top of your yard poses several risks, both to you and your property.

1. Standing water can create a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which are vectors or carriers for a number of diseases. In Nashville’s humid climate, stagnant water provides the ideal conditions for these disease-carrying pests to thrive. By allowing standing water to accumulate in our yards, we inadvertently expose ourselves and our families to these potentially life-threatening illnesses. The longer the water collects, the worse the infestation becomes. Mold and bacteria are also drawn to moist environments, and standing water will help them grow. This can cause contamination of your home and affect those living there.
2. Standing water isn’t just a nuisance; it can also be a fire hazard. Water that accumulates near electrical outlets or appliances increases the risk of a short circuit and subsequent fire hazard. If you have any outdoor electrical items, such as lights or tools, those could pose a threat if water’s around. Then there’s the risk of electrical shock—if water reaches electrical outlets or appliances, such as if it gets into your basement, it can cause a short circuit, leading to electric shock. These electrical hazards can be life-threatening and should not be taken lightly.
   One of the less obvious but equally concerning dangers of standing water is the potential for structural damage to our homes. The prolonged presence of standing water can corrode foundations, leak into basements, weaken flooring support structures, and erode the land around our properties. Sitting water softens and shifts ground, causing structures such as patios and walkways to shift, become uneven, or completely fail. Over time, this change in your landscape can lead to costly repairs. Moreover, structural damage can compromise the safety and stability of homes, putting families at risk.
3. Standing water causes visible damage to your property, including unsightly puddles, erosion, and compromised landscaping. Potential buyers are often deterred by the sight of standing water, as it raises concerns about the property’s drainage and maintenance. No one wants to buy a home with a yard in disrepair that has unsolved drainage issues—would you? Consequently, failing to address standing water can result in a lower property value, making it harder to sell homes for the price they deserve.
4. One of the most compelling reasons to address standing water promptly is the potential for financial losses. Homeowners are typically responsible for any damage caused by standing water on their property. This includes not only the cost of repairs but also potential legal action if the water issues affect neighboring properties. The financial burden of such consequences can be significant and, in many cases, could have been prevented! Early correction of drainage problems will save a lot of money by preventing more serious damage and disruption from occurring.

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

Ways to Correct Water Drainage Issues

Landscape drainage solutions are the best way to fix your drainage problems and provide long-lasting results. The method to correct your standing water issue will vary depending on your property’s needs and unique situation, but there are several options available that can be used alone or together.

1. French drains: These are PVC pipes placed deep within the ground with gravel above them before being topped with grass and soil. When there’s rain, the gravel improves the ability of the water to actually sink down instead of staying on the surface. It travels between the rocks to the pipe, where it’s carried off to another location. French drains are sometimes placed beneath retaining walls, which are built out of concrete, brick, or another material as a way to prevent soil from eroding or washing away.
2. Swales: A shallow, natural-looking valley, a swale is a broad depression that slopes downward and helps give water some direction to flow while increasing the surface area for it to spread out for absorption. Lined with plants perfect for the job, the swale helps increase how much water can be used by the landscape.
3. Land grading: If your property is too flat or is sloped so that water pools near your house instead of moving away from it, land grading may be a good option. This involves using heavy equipment to reshape your land so that it slopes away from the house and entices rainfall to move away instead of sitting there.
4. Cleaning your gutters: Ideally, gutters should lead to a downspout that helps direct water away from the foundation of your home. If your gutters are clogged with debris, the water overflows down the side of your house and collects right near the foundation, where you don’t want it. Make sure to regularly inspect and clear your gutters to prevent this from happening.

Why Professional Landscape Drainage Is Ideal

Professional drainage contractors have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to assess your property’s unique drainage issues and provide tailored solutions. We design and implement effective drainage systems that redirect water away from vulnerable areas, preventing the accumulation of standing water. The system is customized to your needs and space—we’re able to assess your property during a free consultation and detail the perfect solution for your home.

We don’t just address existing standing water; we identify potential drainage problems before they become major issues, saving you time and money in the long run. We deliver custom landscape solutions that enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property while ensuring proper drainage. This not only improves the functionality of your outdoor spaces but also increases your property’s value.

The experts at Greenway of Nashville know the local regulations governing drainage and stormwater management. Being well-versed in these regulations ensures that your property is in compliance and gives you the peace of mind that you won’t have trouble down the road. With us, you can trust that experts are handling the job efficiently and effectively, reducing the stress and hassle associated with dealing with standing water issues on your own. You get time back in your day by handing the project and the effort over to someone else. Time is limited, so why spend it on something you could have someone else take care of for you?

Standing water may seem like a minor inconvenience, but the dangers it poses to your health, property, and finances should not be underestimated. Nashville homeowners look to Greenway for landscaping drainage perfection, and you should too! Consider the long-term benefits of addressing and preventing standing water issues. We provide custom drainage solutions, ensure compliance with local regulations, and ultimately protect your home and family from the dangers of stagnant water. Safeguard your health, property value, and peace of mind with Greenway of Nashville!

Get your free consultation and guaranteed quote with Greenway, and get your property back in shape! All you need to do is call us at (615) 238-4574 to get started on making your yard safe again.

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