If you’re a regular reader in this space, chances are you’ve seen us discussing the vital realm of drainage and how it impacts exterior concrete surfaces on more than one occasion. Drainage is very important for ensuring water doesn’t end up in the wrong places on your concrete surfaces, where it may lead to concerns like cracks, moisture seepage and several others.
At Lift-Up Concrete Lifting, LLC, we’re happy to offer a wide range of concrete repair services to Ogden clients, including everything from garage floor and driveway services to areas like patio lifting and leveling. We regularly advise clients on their drainage setup and how it’s impacting their concrete, particularly in situations where it’s having a negative impact on the quality of their concrete surface. What are some of the most common drainage mistakes that can be made on a home or structure that may interfere with concrete? Here are some examples, plus simple tips on how to avoid them.
Ignoring Clear Issue Signs
If your drainage system is having problems that involve water being directed to areas it shouldn’t be, the signs of this will typically be pretty easy to spot. For instance, if you have water seeping through the cracks in your foundation or appearing in your basement where it wasn’t before, there’s a good chance that water is being directed to these areas due to poor drainage.
If you notice any changes like this happening on your property, it’s important not to ignore them but instead take steps to assess the situation and make changes as needed to your drainage setup. By doing so, you can help avoid bigger issues later on down the road.
Not Adjusting for Seasonal Changes
One of the things that often gets overlooked when it comes to drainage is the fact that seasonal changes can have an impact on how well your system functions. For example, during the winter months when there’s more precipitation, you may need to make adjustments to ensure your system can handle the increased amount of water.
Similarly, during the summer months when there might be drought conditions, you’ll also want to take steps to avoid having too little water in your drainage system. By making adjustments as needed based on the season, you can help ensure your system is always functioning as it should.
Failing to Routinely Inspect and Clean
Just like any other system on your property, your drainage system will also need to be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis to ensure it’s in good working order. This is particularly important if you live in an area with a lot of trees, as leaves and other debris can easily clog up your system if you’re not careful.
To avoid this, make sure to inspect your system regularly and clean it out as needed. This will help ensure it’s always able to function properly and doesn’t end up causing problems for your concrete surfaces.
No Drainage System at All
Perhaps the single largest mistake any property owner can make when it comes to drainage is not having a system in place at all. If you don’t have any kind of system in place, water will simply be left to run off your property in whatever direction it chooses.
This can obviously lead to a lot of problems, so it’s important to make sure you have some sort of system running. There are a few different types of systems that can be used, so consult with a professional to find the best option for your needs.
Trying to DIY Major Issues
There are certain parts of drainage maintenance that can be easily handled by the average homeowner, such as removing leaves or debris from gutters. On the flip side, however, there are certain issues that are best left to the professionals.
For example, if you’re dealing with a cracked pipe or a clog that’s located deep in your system, it’s generally best to call in a professional rather than try to tackle the issue yourself. Not only is this safer, but it can also help ensure the issue is resolved correctly the first time around.
Improper Directions
With concrete in mind specifically, the direction of your drainage system is vitally important. If water is being directed towards your concrete surfaces, it can lead to a number of problems such as cracking, staining and more.
To help avoid these issues, make sure your drainage system is set up in such a way that water is being directed away from any concrete surface on your property. This will help keep your concrete in good condition and prevent any unnecessary damage.
Old Materials
Finally, if your gutter and drainage system is still using materials that are outdated or in poor condition, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Older systems may not be able to handle the amount of water they’re being asked to, which can obviously lead to a lot of problems.
If you’re not sure whether or not your system needs to be replaced, consult with a professional for their opinion. They’ll assess your current system and let you know if it needs to be updated or not.
While drainage might not be the most exciting topic, it’s still vitally important for protecting your concrete surfaces. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure your system is always functioning properly and doesn’t end up causing any problems.
For more on this, or to learn about any of our concrete repair services for Ogden clients, speak to the pros at Lift-Up Concrete Lifting, LLC today.
