Signs You Might Have Poor Drainage

Not only do most drainage problems occur during winter but winter rain also tends to expose a lot of underlying drainage issues, which are usually hidden before the start of winter.Drainage Problems

To identify a poor drainage system, you should be on the lookout for the following signs:   

Pooling water

Pooling water is a classic sign of a poor drainage system that needs immediate attention because the water is stagnant. It’s normal for water to pool during heavy rains but it  shouldn’t last long as that signals a bad drainage system. A number of measures can be taken such as installing french drains, drywells, sump pumps or catch basins drain.

Related: When is a Sump Pump Needed

Overflowing gutters

Gutters shouldn’t overflow and it should be a cause for concern if they do. Gutters are meant to direct rainwater away from the building in order to prevent water damage. To prevent overflowing gutters, you should clean them out regularly, check the pitch and tilt, install guards that prevent debris from falling into the gutters or the ones that prevent water from splashing over the gutters onto the ground.

Related: Prepare Your Gutters For Winter

Cracks on walls and foundation

Certain types of cracks on the walls and the foundation can mean that you have a poor drainage system. Most foundation problems are caused by water, so if you have any signs of foundation damage, the chances of having a poor drainage are very high. Cracks on the corners of your windows and doors are a sign that you might have a compromised foundation. Stair step cracks are also a serious indication of foundation damage and horizontal cracks are a classic sign of foundation damage.

Water stains on the floor and walls

After water seeps into the walls of the basement or foundation, you can expect to see certain types of stains on the walls or floor of the basement or foundation. Efflorescence, water marks, reddish stains or dark stains are the most common types of stains experienced by basements and foundations experiencing water seepage. Other types of stains are caused by water that is directly dripping off the roof or water pipes.

Related : What Is A French Drain ?

Contact a drainage contractor to repair your poor drainage system . To get a free drainage inspection estimate Call California Foundation Works on 323-418-2239.