How to Fix Common Yard Drainage Problems

If your yard turns into a swamp every time it rains, you’re not alone. Across Northeast Washington and North Idaho, poor drainage is one of the most common property issues we see — and it can quietly cause major damage over time.

At TrackWest Excavating, we design and install drainage systems that protect your home, landscaping, and foundation by keeping water flowing where it belongs.

Why Drainage Problems Happen

Most drainage issues come down to improper grading or compacted soil. When water can’t flow away from your home, it collects in low spots, seeps into basements, or erodes topsoil. Over time, this can weaken foundations, kill grass, and even wash out driveways.

Other common causes include:

• Downspouts that empty too close to the foundation
• Hardpan or clay soils that trap water
• Driveway or walkway grading that directs runoff toward structures
• Overflowing culverts or poorly placed ditches

How a Drainage Contractor Can Help

Fixing drainage isn’t guesswork — it’s part science, part excavation. A professional drainage contractor starts by evaluating:

• Slope & grading – shaping the ground so water naturally flows away
• Soil composition – determining if the ground absorbs or repels water
• Existing infrastructure – identifying blocked or undersized culverts or drain lines

Once the source of the problem is clear, we design a solution that fits your property — not a one-size-fits-all fix.

Proven Drainage Solutions That Work

Every yard and site is different, but here are a few systems we install most often across the Inland Northwest:

1. French Drains

A French drain uses a gravel trench and perforated pipe to collect and redirect water underground — perfect for soggy lawns or pooling areas.

2. Surface Drains & Catch Basins

These collect runoff from hard surfaces like driveways or patios and move it safely downhill or into a discharge area.

3. Swales & Grading Adjustments

Re-grading or adding a shallow swale can dramatically improve flow while blending naturally into your landscape.

4. Culvert Replacement

If your driveway or private road floods, the culvert beneath may be undersized or clogged. We can replace or resize it to restore proper flow.

The Hidden Costs of Ignoring Drainage Issues

Ignoring poor drainage often leads to bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road:

• Foundation cracking or settling
• Erosion around buildings or fences
• Standing water attracting mosquitoes
• Muddy driveways and unusable lawns

Preventing these issues early with professional grading or drainage installation is always more affordable than repairing the damage later.

TrackWest’s Approach to Drainage

Our crew has solved hundreds of drainage challenges across Newport, Oldtown, Priest River, and Blanchard. We combine field experience with engineered methods to design systems that last — no shortcuts, no guesswork.

Every job starts with a clear plan, the right materials, and careful cleanup so your property looks better than when we arrived.

Ready to Solve Your Drainage Problem?

If you’re tired of puddles, erosion, or soggy lawns, TrackWest Excavating can help. We’ll assess your site and recommend a long-term fix that fits your property and budget.

Call (208) 629-9847 or request a free estimate today to get your yard back on solid ground.