First thing I did was figure out where the water was pooling (spoiler: everywhere near my patio). Dug a shallow trench leading away from the worst spots, then filled it with gravel and a perforated pipe—kinda like a mini French drain. Covered it back up with dirt and grass. It helped, but I still get some puddles after a big storm. Anyone got tricks for heavy clay soil or is this just how it goes?
It helped, but I still get some puddles after a big storm. Anyone got tricks for heavy clay soil or is this just how it goes?
Honestly, with clay soil, I've found the mini French drain setup helps, but it’s not always enough. Ever notice if the water’s backing up near your foundation? Sometimes those shallow trenches just move the problem. Have you tried adding a catch basin or rain garden further out? I’m always worried about water getting too close to the house—seen too many tenants call about basement leaks after a big storm.