Backyard Drainage Methods

Drain Tiles

• Underground drain pipes are a good fit for large or flat back yards. Drain tiles are perforated drain pipes installed underground on a slope. The pipes carry excess water from saturated areas to dry areas or to a designated outlet such as a ditch or street gutter. To install tiles, dig a canal 18 inches deep in which to lay the drain pipes. Laying gravel along the top and bottom of the canal blocks debris so that the pipes don't become clogged. Then lay soil over the gravel, and plant grass seed to conceal the system.

Swale

• A vegetative drainage swale is used on commercial properties and large yards to manage water and snow runoff. One advantage of installing a swale is that it also carries away excess fertilizers and other pollutants from your yard. Swales are a sloped, U-shaped depression in the ground. Flood-resistant grass is planted along the base to slow the flow of water, and trees and shrubs are planted along the top edges to absorb groundwater. A swale should be installed along the back or side of a back yard so that it doesn't interfere with gardens and play areas.

Dry Creek Bed

• A dry creek bed is a stylish solution and a fitting option for a smaller yard or area, where the drainage problems are close to the home. Similar to drainage ditches, creek beds slope an inch for every 50 inches of length to direct the flow of water. Creek beds are lined with landscaping fabric and gravel, and river rocks and bricks can also be used to enhance the appearance. A small pond should be installed at the bottom to capture water runoff. Use water-loving shrubs and ornamental grasses such as Bermuda grass to obscure the beginning point of the creek bed.

Improving Soil

• If your soil has a claylike consistency, adding organic matter will help the land absorb more water. Consider this method if the drainage problem is not too severe. Use a flat shovel to cut into and lift off the top layer of grass. Shovel out about 6 inches of dirt, and mix it with an equal portion of sand and compost. Refill the area, and lay the grass pieces on top. Use the remaining soil, sand and compost mix to fill in any low areas.