How to Avoid a Flooded Garden With Subsoil Drainage

Many properties in Auckland have soil with a high clay content. Without adequate drainage, this can be a recipe for disaster over autumn and winter, as stormwater tends to puddle on the lawn and drain away very slowly.

If this is the case at your home, you will likely experience a flooded garden or a waterlogged, soggy lawn during the rainy months.

A squelchy garden is no fun for anyone. So how can you fix it? The answer is subsoil drainage.

What is subsoil drainage?

The layer of soil just beneath the soil surface is known as subsoil. Unlike surface soil, minerals such as clay tend to accumulate in subsoil, resulting in water retention that interferes with the structure and stability of the ground.

Subsoil drainage systems are installed below ground level to remove excess water from the soil, avoiding floods and protecting your property against water damage.

How do you install subsoil drainage?

Generally, we install subsoil drainage at the lowest point of your garden, as this is where flooding tends to occur, but the exact location varies from property to property. Sometimes we install subsoil drainage around paths in your garden, within raised garden beds and behind fencing.

The most common type of subsoil drain we install is a perforated drainage pipe. Often, the pipe is surrounded by a geotextile fabric, which prevents soil particles and other debris from entering the drainage system.

Can I DIY subsoil drainage in my garden? Do I really need a drain layer?

We don’t recommend trying to install subsoil drainage without the help of a professional. When installing subsoil drainage, it’s crucial to have a good understanding of water table levels, erosion and council regulations.

Subsoil drainage must be channeled into an approved discharge point, such as a stormwater drainage system or soakhole, so you need someone who has the knowledge and experience to get this right.

It’s also important to undertake a thorough subsoil analysis before moving forward with a subsoil drainage installation.

Now is the best time to chat with us about subsoil drainage, while the ground is still dry and before our busy winter period hits.

Ready to fix your boggy garden? Get in touch below for a no-obligation quote.