Drainage system installations are best saved for warm and dry conditions, such as early summer or fall. Contractors may charge seasonal rates, varying from region to region, depending on the local climate. Excavation and installation are simpler and less labor-intensive in dry conditions than digging into wet or frozen ground.
If your yard regularly has pooling or standing water, it most likely needs drainage upgrades. Other signs of poor drainage include overflowing gutters during rain, puddles near your foundation, and water stains in your basement. Drainage problems may also cause patchy spots in your lawn or attract pests.
You can combine drainage installations with projects in the same area. Consider adding new drainage systems during broad construction projects, especially if you're building a new home or a large addition. This is often the ideal time to add a drainage system because contractors are already excavating. Likewise, landscaping and drainage upgrades often go hand-in-hand.
Ask your contractor questions to verify their qualifications, expertise, and workmanship. Make sure their estimate explains exactly what your drainage system includes and how it addresses specific issues in your yard. Check for customer reviews to gauge their reputation.
It depends on whether you need a sump pump or a French drain. French drains drain the water without machinery, while sump pumps are mechanical devices that activate once enough water raises the float. Sump pumps won't keep your basement dry, but they prevent flooding and can help protect your home's most critical appliances. A French drain assists in keeping water from entering your basement and can work with sump pumps as a backup to keep the basement dry.