Problems Caused By Poor Drainage

Poor drainage is a problem that is not as often discussed, yet has serious consequences if ignored. Residential and commercial roofing contractor, All Angles Covered, shares an in-depth look at the consequences of poor drainage.

Proper Drainage Design

Drainage systems are regarded as a mechanism to keep rainwater away from the house foundations. But one other element of proper drainage is that it should also keep the rainwater runoff away from other areas where it may cause damage. While there are solutions, such as French drains – which allow for better control over runoff – there are no substitutes for proper drainage design.

The Consequences of Poor Drainage

Poor drainage can cause many problems.

• Foundation Damage — Standard house foundations, whether pile, pier or slab, are made from concrete, which readily absorbs moisture. Too much moisture can weaken the otherwise solid concrete and prevent it from supporting the weight of the house.

• Soil Damage — Pooling water can also make the soil layers too soft, even if the foundations are protected from moisture damage. This causes the house to settle. One might argue that this is a normal process, but it certainly isn’t the case if the house is settling too fast and if it’s doing so unevenly. If the latter happens, the walls and the floor would start forming cracks, and this would cause strain that would eventually damage the roofing structure.

• Excess Moisture In the Basement — The same excess moisture would be absorbed by the basement walls, which can cause mold and mildew growth as well as reduced structural support.

• Damage to Other Exterior Areas — Poor drainage can also be caused by improper downspout sizing. If the downspout terminates at areas like concrete paths, landscaping or even neighboring properties, it could erode such areas and cause damage over time. Hiring a contractor who knows both gutters and drainage systems can help minimize any of these problems.

All Angles Covered is your leading provider of gutter services. Give us a call at (303) 857-5925, or fill out our contact form.