How would you solve this landscaping problem?

Question

I have a side of my house where when it rains it just puddles there. I am not sure what to do to solve this problem. I thought I could just build the area up with more dirt and stuff, but then the water would problably just continue to erode the dirt away. It is right next to a retaining wall of my neighbors and it is about 3 or 4 ft wide and 15-20 ft long. Where the water puddles the most it has even killed the grass. Any suggestions would be helpful.

Answer 1

If there is a down slope then detour it. Build the slope up so that it won't run down or else put in a french drain like the other person was talking about. If you have a gutter there then simply move your cutter spout to drain in a different area! And you should seriously think about getting it fixed, if it causes problems with their wall you could be responsible for the cost since you didn't maintain it. However, it sounds like that is what you are trying to do! I wish I had neighbors like you!

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Answer 2

build up the area and cover the surface with black matting, old grass clippings or mulch  

Answer 3

1. Grade the earth so that it is highest at the house and slopes away about 3 feet.

2. Check to see what causes the rain water to collect at that point and if possible try to divert it,  ( i.e. if it comes from a downspout,etc.)

Answer 4

Install a French Drain to carry the water away. Dig a Ditch, put perforated pipe in the bottom, cover with gravel and the last two inches with dirt. Landscape or plant grass on top.

The water drains into the pipe and is carried away, usually to a lower place on the property or to the street.

This may be the source of the water. Your neighbor may have a drain going to your property.