Standing water often triggers an immediate product search: French drain, catch basin, dry well, or extra soil. The more useful first step is to trace the water.
Identify where water comes from
Rainfall on the yard may be only one source. Roof downspouts, neighbouring grades, hard surfaces, melting snow, irrigation, blocked swales, and compacted soil can concentrate water in the same low area.
Watch how the site behaves during rain
When it is safe, observe the yard during a normal rain and again after heavier weather. Note where water enters, how quickly it moves, which routes are blocked, how long pooling remains, and whether the problem is seasonal.
Separate surface drainage from infiltration
Surface grading uses visible slopes and swales to move water. Infiltration allows water to soak into soil. Some soils accept water readily; compacted or fine soils may drain slowly. A site can need better surface movement even if an underground drain is considered.
Understand common components
Grading and swales
Shallow surface routes are often the simplest way to move water, but they need an appropriate destination and must not redirect water onto neighbouring properties.
Catch basins and solid pipe
A catch basin can collect surface water at a known low point. The pipe still needs a suitable outlet, slope, maintenance access, and protection from freezing or blockage.
French drains
A French drain typically uses perforated pipe and free-draining stone to collect subsurface water. It is not automatically appropriate for every low spot, especially without a workable discharge route.
Downspout changes
Extending a downspout away from a foundation or connecting it to an appropriate solid-pipe route can reduce concentrated roof water. Do not create a trip hazard or direct discharge toward neighbours.
Coordinate drainage with the finished landscape
Patio elevations, retaining walls, fences, basement entrances, sheds, gardens, and sod all affect or are affected by the water path. Solve the drainage plan before installing finishes that may need to be removed again.
A drainage product is only one component. The solution is the complete route from source to collection to a safe outlet.