Keep Your Yard Dry with These 4 Drainage Methods

Keeping your yard dry is essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful landscape. It prevents water damage to your property and keeps pests and insects at bay. Here are three unique methods and tools to help keep your yard dry all year round: a French drain grating, a rainwater tank, or a soil moisture metre.

Trench Drain

Trench drains are a practical and efficient solution for managing surface water and preventing flooding or water damage in various areas. These linear drainage systems, also known as channel drains, are widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. If you’re considering installing a trench drain, here are three simple steps to guide you.

1. Before beginning the installation, planning and preparing the area properly is crucial.
2. Use a shovel or an excavator to dig a trench according to the marked boundaries. The depth and width of the trench will depend on the specific requirements of your chosen trench drain system.
3. Carefully place the trench drain into the trench, aligning it with the slope or desired water flow direction. Connect multiple drain sections if necessary, using the manufacturer’s recommended connectors or couplings. Check the drain’s level and adjust as needed.
4. Gradually fill the trench surrounding the trench drain with the excavated soil, ensuring it is evenly distributed and compacted. Compact the soil periodically to avoid settling and maintain proper drainage alignment.
5. Check the drain’s alignment and make any necessary adjustments. Once satisfied, secure the drain with the manufacturer-provided locking mechanisms or fasteners. Remove any excess soil and debris from the drain’s surface.

Once installed, thoroughly test the trench drain by directing water through it. Ensure the water flows smoothly and efficiently. Regularly inspect and maintain the trench drain, removing debris or obstructions to preserve its functionality.

French Drain

French drains are trenches containing gravel or rocks that redirect water away from your property. It allows water to flow through the gravel and into a perforated pipe at the bottom of the trench. The pipe then directs the water away from your yard into a drainage system or a dry well.

Installing a French drain is a straightforward process that can be completed in a day or two:

1. It would be best if you dug a trench along the perimeter of your yard or in the area where water tends to accumulate. It should be about 18 inches deep and 12 inches wide.
2. Line the bottom of the trench with landscaping fabric to prevent soil and debris from entering the drain grating.
3. Fill the trench halfway with a gravel or rock drain layer and place the perforated pipe on top of the gravel. Cover the pipe with more gravel or rock until it reaches the top of the trench.

Rainwater Tank

A rainwater tank is a container that collects and stores rainwater from your roof. It can be used for various purposes, including watering your lawn and garden, flushing toilets, and washing clothes. Using rainwater instead of tap water can reduce your water bill and conserve water resources.

To install a rainwater tank, choose a location close to your roof downpipes. The tank should be placed on a level and stable base, such as a concrete slab or compacted gravel. You must also install a first flush diverter and a leaf filter to prevent debris and contaminants from entering the tank.

Once the tank is installed, connect it to your irrigation system or use a hose to water your plants and lawn. It is important to use a pump if the tank is located lower than the area you want to water. It would help if you also cleaned the tank regularly to prevent algae growth and ensure the water quality.

Soil Moisture Metre

This is a handy tool for any gardener or landscaper. It can help you save water and money and ensure your plants and lawn thrive by determining when to water them and prevent overwatering or underwatering. Overwatering can result in root rot and other plant diseases, while underwatering can cause wilting and death of your plants.

To use a soil moisture meter, insert the probe into the soil and wait for the reading to stabilise. The meter will display a number indicating the soil’s moisture level. Most meters have a colour-coded system that makes it easy to interpret the results.

Tailored Drainage Solutions for Your Home’s Needs

Using methods and tools such as French drains, rainwater tanks, and soil moisture meters, you can prevent water damage, conserve water resources, and promote the growth of your plants and lawn. These solutions are affordable, easy to install, and need minimal maintenance, making them ideal for any homeowner or landscaper.

At Yeti, we have a variety of drainage system solutions that can be customised to fit your specific project needs. You can explore each range in more detail by selecting one of our options above. Our team specialises in creating custom solutions, so we can adapt any available systems to suit your requirements. We are always ready to discuss your project’s unique needs and recommend the best system for your application. Visit our online catalogue now to select the right drain grating for your home.