Draining Material...?

Question

I have a yard that becomes a small flood plain during heavy rains. Besides filling it in with dirt, is there another material that will help the water drain better into the earth?

Answer 1

You can put in a dry well. It is basically a large pit filled with gravel and then several inches of soil with landscape fabric in between. Depending on the size well it can hold thousands of gallons and slowly release it into the soil. There are several scenarios on how to do it depending on the source of water ( i.e. downspouts vs. water coming from a nearby hill). Filling the area with dirt really isn't an option as you will just end up with a mud pit. There are books at places like Home Depot you can look at for ideas or call a landscaper for ideas.

Answer 2

I had the same problem when I bought my new house, so I put in a french drain and also a drain in the low spots of the yard. You see them at golf courses and parks for the same reasons.  

Answer 3

You may be able to improve the path where it drains away. If you are able to obtain some good quality fill dirt..do a little reshaping, to keep the water away from you dwelling.

Answer 4

Turning your soil over and adding sand will help it to drain quicker and keep it dry. Most beach side homes are build on sand which is its own draining system.