By Slaymaker Landscaping ยท Published
A puddle marks the place where water stopped, but it rarely explains the whole problem. This guide shows how to create a simple property water map that makes a drainage site review more productive.
Begin uphill of the wet area
Look for roof leaders, neighboring slopes, retaining edges, driveways, patios, compacted lawn, and other surfaces that concentrate runoff. Photograph the full setting during or shortly after rain from a safe location.
Mark surfaces that speed or block flow
Concrete, pavers, walls, raised beds, fences, and berms can redirect water. Draw these as boundaries and note openings where water crosses from one part of the yard to another.
Record time, not just depth
Note when water appears, how long it remains, and whether the soil stays soft after standing water disappears. A short-lived flow path and a low area that remains saturated can point to different planning questions.
Identify possible destinations before choosing a product
A swale, grade adjustment, downspout route, collection point, or buried line still needs a workable destination. Property edges, easements, utilities, public areas, and current local requirements can limit where water may go.
Bring the map to the site review
Share wide rain-day photos, dry access views, the rough route, timing observations, and planned patios, walls, pools, or concrete. The site review can then verify elevations and constraints instead of starting with a product name.
Keep planning