Living in the Portland Oregon Metro area means dealing with the wet, especially during the colder months. While we need water to keep our flora and fauna thriving, we don’t need the water seeping into our homes and turning our landscapes into ponds and marshes. Some of the soil in Oregon is a dense clay which make it difficult for the water to seep in naturally and instead just runs right off. With the correct drainage solution you can make sure you are channeling the water where it needs to go.
There are several drainage options available to make sure that water doesn’t ruin your landscape. Here are simplistic explanations of different types of drainage tools used when dealing with rain and runoff.
Dry Well
Dry wells are perforated underground “tanks” buried 3’ deep that collect excess water. The water is held in the tank and then is allowed to percolate into the ground at a natural rate as the soil allows. This allows for the water to get into the soil instead of just running into the gutter.
R Tank
Similar to dry wells, an R-tank is a buried structure (think milk crate) helps collect and allows water to percolate into the soil. It is more horizontal and honeycomb in design. They can collect the water to either seep into the surrounding ground or the water can be conveyed to another location for dispersal.
French Drains
French drains are used to collect and channel water. A perforated pipe is laid in the ground and covered with river rock at the surface. This allows the water to collect in the pipe and then be directed elsewhere, like a dry well or catch basin. This is a common method of directing water to more satisfactory locations. These are often helpful along patios to keep water from pooling between your grass and the paver patio.
Dry Creek Beds
By following the natural path of the water, dry creek beds are a more natural way to direct water. A mini trench is dug and lined with river rock, imitating a riverbed. During the rainy, wet times it acts as a creek for the excess water to flow while during dry spells it is a rock feature for beautification. The rock gives your landscape texture and is still functional when needed.
Tree Bee Landscapes, LLC, are experts in the drainage area with all the needed tools and equipment to get it installed correctly. Our estimators can discuss options for keeping your landscape healthy instead of a soggy mess. You do not have to suffer with soggy lawn syndrome anymore.
