Foundation Drainage Solutions
Foundation Drainage Solutions in Edmond, OK
Water is the #1 enemy of home foundations. In Edmond, the combination of heavy spring rains, expansive clay soils, and flat lot grading creates the perfect conditions for water-related foundation problems.
How Water Damages Your Foundation
Soil Expansion – When clay soils absorb water, they expand with tremendous force — up to 5,000 pounds per square foot. This pressure pushes against foundation walls and can cause cracking, bowing, and structural failure.
Soil Washout – Flowing water can erode soil from beneath your foundation, creating voids that lead to settling and slab cracks.
Hydrostatic Pressure – Saturated soil exerts pressure against basement and crawlspace walls, forcing water through even hairline cracks.
Freeze-Thaw Damage – In winter, water trapped in foundation cracks freezes and expands, widening the cracks further.
Our Drainage Solutions
French Drains – Buried perforated pipe systems that collect groundwater and direct it away from the foundation. Installed around the perimeter at the footing level.
Surface Grading – We regrade the soil around your home to create positive slope — at least 6 inches of drop in the first 10 feet away from the foundation.
Gutter and Downspout Improvements – Properly sized gutters and downspout extensions that carry roof water at least 5 feet away from the foundation.
Crawlspace Drainage – Interior drain tile systems that collect water entering the crawlspace and direct it to a sump pump.
Sump Pump Installation – For homes with chronic water issues, we install battery-backup sump pump systems to keep crawlspaces and basements dry during power outages.
How to Check Your Drainage
- After a heavy rain, walk around your home and look for standing water near the foundation
- Check that downspouts extend at least 5 feet from the foundation wall
- Look for erosion patterns that show where water flows against the house
- Check crawlspace after rain for moisture or standing water
- Look for efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on foundation walls
The Cost of Ignoring Drainage
Poor drainage doesn’t just cause foundation cracks. It leads to: mold remediation, crawlspace encapsulation, pest infestations, reduced property value, and major structural repairs. A $1,500 drainage fix today can prevent a $15,000 foundation repair tomorrow.