What Type of Drainage solution is best for you?
Do you have water pooling in your yard or creeping towards your foundation? Especially after a heavy summer rain? If that sounds like you, you might have a landscape drainage issue on your hands. But not every drainage issue needs the same fix.
At Thorpe Landscapes, we specialize in custom drainage solutions that solve problems at the source. Whether you're dealing with surface runoff, soil saturation, or poor grading, here’s a breakdown of 5 drainage solutions, and when they make the most sense.
French Drains
Best for: Moving water away from foundations, patios, and low spots in the yard
A French drain works by collecting water through a perforated pipe wrapped in gravel, buried below the surface. It’s especially effective if your yard or landscape has areas where water consistently pools or if you’re noticing water near your home’s foundation.
Think of it as a hidden channel that quietly handles water behind the scenes — efficient, clean, and low-maintenance.
2. Inceptor Drains
Best for: Capturing surface runoff before it spreads.
Also called trench drains, inceptor drains are installed at ground level and designed to “intercept” water as it flows across driveways, walkways, or patios. They're ideal for hardscape areas where standing water can cause slick surfaces or erosion.
These drains work fast, catching water on the move and directing it safely away before it causes damage.
3. Dry Wells & Flow Wells
Best for: Recharging the ground with excess water.
Dry wells (or flow wells) are underground chambers that collect stormwater and allow it to slowly percolate into the surrounding soil. They’re great when you want to reduce runoff or don’t have a nearby outlet to direct water.
Bonus: These systems are completely hidden underground — perfect if you want functionality without sacrificing curb appeal.
4. Swales & Culverts
Best for: Guiding water through the landscape naturally.
A swale is a shallow, grassy channel that directs water where you want it to go. When combined with a culvert — a pipe that allows water to pass under driveways or walkways — these systems create a controlled flow path across your property.
Swales are a great solution if you want to manage large volumes of runoff in a way that still feels natural within your landscape.
5. Rain Gardens & Retention Ponds
Best for: Adding beauty while managing water on-site.
Rain gardens and retention ponds collect water in low-lying areas and allow it to slowly soak into the ground. Planted with native grasses, flowers, or even ornamental trees, they double as attractive landscape features that support pollinators and reduce flooding.
Rain gardens and retention ponds are a win-win, better drainage and a more beautiful yard!
Still not sure which one you need?
Drainage isn’t one-size-fits-all solution, and combining multiple systems can give you the best results. At Thorpe Landscapes, we evaluate your property, soil, and water flow patterns to recommend a solution that works long-term.
Get in touch today for a free drainage assessment and take the first step toward a drier, healthier yard.