How To Install Yard Drainage: A Complete Guide

Rainfall is a beloved among gardeners. It provides the healthy dose of watering a landscape needs to thrive. Sometimes, however, in large quantities, it can pose more of a problem than a benefit. If you have yard drainage issues or no system at all, then soon you’ll be dealing with basement flooding, a soggy lawn, and yard erosion.

It is essential to fix the water problem. And Omar Masonry and Painting LLC is here to lend you a hand. Our complete guide on how to install yard drainage yourself covers all the required steps to build an in-ground system so you no longer have to deal with excess rainwater drowning your backyard.

Let’s get started.

Time and Complexity

Our DIY yard drainage solutions don’t require you to be a master in the industry. It’s a moderately elaborate process that can be done over the weekend, depending on the size of your yard and the scope of the drainage system. It mostly calls for attention to detail and some digging. However, with patience, planning, and our comprehensive guide, you can install your brand-new drainage without much hassle or stress.

Estimated time: 1-2 days
Complexity level: Moderate

Tools and Materials

As with any renovation project, a do-it-yourself yard drainage system will require some tools and materials. We recommend following our list and having everything on hand before beginning for a smooth and efficient process. Here is what you’ll need:

• Rake
• Utility knife or scissors (for cutting fabric and pipe)
• Optional: Catch basin or inlet grate

Step-By-Step On DIY In-Ground Drainage System

Step 1: Identify Problem Areas and Plan the Route

The first step to DIY yard drainage is to assess where water tends to accumulate most in your backyard after heavy rain. Identify the areas where drainage is needed and plan a route to direct the water away from your home or low spots:

1. Walk around your lawn after a rainstorm to specify problem areas.
2. Plan the drainage route. The endpoint should direct water to a lower area, such as a drainage ditch, garden bed, or street gutter.
3. Mark the planned trench path with stakes and string.

Step 2: Calculate the Slope for Proper Drainage

Proper water flow through the drain pipe calls for a slight slope. The general rule is to create a slope of 1 inch per 10 feet of pipe length.

1. Use a measuring tape and level to ensure the slope is consistent along the trench.
2. Adjust the string along the trench path to act as a guide for your digging depth.

Step 3: Dig the Trench

Now that your route and slope are all planned, it’s time to dig the trench for the drain pipe.

1. Use a shovel or trenching tool to dig a trench about 6-12 inches wide and 18-24 inches deep.
2. Follow the string guide to ensure your trench maintains the proper slope.
3. Clear out any debris or large rocks from the trench as you dig.

Step 4: Add Gravel to the Trench

1. Add 2-3 inches of gravel to the bottom of the trench.
2. Use a rake to distribute the gravel evenly across the trench.
3. Check the slope again using a level to make sure it remains consistent.

Step 5: Lay the Drain Pipe

Time to install the perforated drainage pipe, which will collect and channel water away.

1. Wrap the perforated drain pipe with drainage fabric to prevent clogging from soil and debris.
2. Place the pipe into the trench, ensuring the holes are facing downward.
3. Connect additional pipe sections as needed using pipe fittings.
4. Ensure the pipe follows the slope and remains well-supported by the gravel.

Step 6: Cover the Pipe with Gravel and Fabric

Covering the pipe with gravel ensures that water can flow easily into the pipe, while fabric prevents dirt from clogging the system.

1. Add another 3-4 inches of gravel over the top of the pipe.
2. Wrap the drainage fabric over the top of the gravel, ensuring full coverage.
3. Trim any excess fabric using a utility knife or scissors.

Step 7: Backfill the Trench

Once the pipe and gravel are in place, you can backfill the trench with soil.

1. Use the soil that was removed during the digging process to fill the trench.
2. Compact the soil as you go to prevent settling later on.
3. Rake the surface of the soil to level it with the surrounding yard.

Step 8: Test Your Drainage System

1. Run water through the system using a garden hose or wait for the next rainstorm.
2. Check the flow of water through the pipe and ensure it’s being directed to the proper endpoint.
3. If needed, make adjustments to the slope or outlet location.