Introduction
If you’ve ever spotted soggy patches in your yard after a Colorado rainstorm or worried about water creeping into your basement, you’re not alone. Homeowners across Denver, Boulder, and the Front Range face unique drainage challenges, thanks to our local climate, soil, and landscape. At Van Matre Construction, we’ve spent over two decades helping neighbors protect their foundations and landscapes from Colorado’s unpredictable weather.
We created this guide to empower you with the knowledge you need to choose the right yard drainage solution. Whether you’re considering a French drain, exploring alternatives, or just want to understand your options, you’ll find clear answers and actionable advice here—grounded in our real-world experience.
Ready to protect your home? Contact Van Matre Construction today for a personalized drainage assessment.
Understanding Yard Drainage Challenges in Colorado’s Front Range
Colorado’s beauty comes with a few quirks—dense clay soils, rocky ground, freeze-thaw cycles, and sudden downpours. Each of these can spell trouble for your yard and your home’s foundation if water isn’t managed properly.
As we always tell our clients: “Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of property foundation, and as luck would have it, the material that surrounds the base of your house can absorb any kind of moisture. The single most important thing a person can do to improve the health of their foundation, thereby avoiding a wet basement, is to keep water away from the foundation in the first place.”
We’ve seen how quickly a little standing water can turn into a big problem—cracks in the foundation, ruined landscaping, and costly repairs. That’s why we’re passionate about helping homeowners in our community find the right drainage solutions for their unique properties.
Overview of Yard Drainage Systems
Before you can pick the best solution, it helps to know what’s out there. Yard drainage isn’t just one thing—it’s a toolbox of options, each designed for specific problems.
Common drainage solutions we install:
- French Drains: Subsurface systems that move groundwater away from your foundation.
- Catch Basins & Yard Drains: Collect surface water and channel it away from low spots.
- Dry Wells: Underground chambers that slowly disperse water into the soil.
- Channel/Trench Drains: Grated drains for paved areas like driveways and patios.
- Swales: Shallow, landscaped ditches that guide water naturally.
- Grading: Shaping the land so water flows away from your home.
- Rain Gardens: Beautiful, planted depressions that soak up and filter runoff.
- Sump Pumps: Mechanically remove water from basements or crawl spaces.
Quick Comparison Table:
| System | Handles | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| French Drain | Subsurface water | Soggy ground, foundation issues |
| Catch Basin/Yard Drain | Surface water | Pooling, runoff |
| Dry Well | Downspout runoff | Small spaces, slow infiltration, seldom a good idea in Colorado |
| Channel/Trench Drain | Surface runoff | Driveways, patios |
| Swale | Surface runoff | Large, gently sloped yards |
| Grading | All water types | Overall property drainage |
| Rain Garden | Shallow runoff | Eco-friendly, minor issues |
| Sump Pump | Standing water | Basements, crawl spaces |
Deep Dive – French Drains
What Is a French Drain?
A French drain is a classic solution for getting water out of places it doesn’t belong. Picture a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe at the bottom, wrapped in filter fabric, buried out of sight. Water seeps through the gravel, into the pipe, and is carried safely away from your home.
When Should You Choose a French Drain?
French drains are perfect when you’re dealing with:
- Persistent soggy soil around your foundation
- Wet basements or crawl spaces
- Groundwater that doesn’t drain naturally
- Water that accumulates after rain but doesn’t pool on the surface
We’ve installed countless French drains for clients who were tired of patching up their basements year after year. One homeowner told us, “After years of frustration, Van Matre’s French drain finally kept my basement dry. No more musty smells or ruined boxes!”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly effective for subsurface water issues
- Protects foundations and basements
- Long-lasting when installed by professionals
Cons:
- Requires excavation—can disrupt landscaping
- Not as effective for pooling surface water
- Needs occasional maintenance to prevent clogging
As we like to remind folks: “French drains are a fantastic solution, but only if installed correctly. We use only the highest quality materials and equipment to ensure your basement is properly waterproofed.”
Comparing Other Yard Drainage Solutions
Let’s look at the alternatives—and when they might be the smarter choice for your yard.
Catch Basins & Yard Drains
Catch basins are surface-level boxes with grates that collect water from low spots and channel it away through underground pipes. Perfect for managing surface runoff after a heavy rain.
- Best for: Heavy rainfall, large surface runoff, debris-prone yards
- Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning to remove leaves and sediment
Dry Wells
Dry wells are underground chambers filled with gravel or stone. They collect water from downspouts and slowly release it into the soil.
- Best for: Downspout runoff, slow infiltration in tight spaces
- Pro tip: Proper sizing and lot-location are crucial for Colorado’s variable soils. It is possible to construct effective dry wells in Colorado. Most front range soils percolate slowly, slower than the input from a big rain. When this happens, the well will overflow. It is important to locate the overflow discharge in a location on the lot where water will flow away from the structure. It is also important to locate dry wells away from structures: by definition, dry wells introduce water to strata lower than the surface: locating a dry well close to a foundation can actually cause more problems than they solve.
Channel & Trench Drains
Long, grated drains installed in driveways, patios, or walkways to quickly capture and redirect surface water. Sometimes also called zipper drains, they are pre-formed gutters that are cast into concrete with a grate on the top surface allowing water to enter the gutter, but keeping debris out and supporting vehicle and foot traffic
- Best for: Paved areas with runoff issues
- Integration: Can be seamlessly blended into hardscaping
Swales & Grading
Swales are shallow, landscaped ditches that gently guide water away from structures. Grading means reshaping the land to encourage natural flow.
- Best for: Large, gently sloped properties; eco-friendly drainage
- Local insight: Grading is often overlooked, but is one of the most effective solutions here.
Rain Gardens & Sustainable Options
Rain gardens are beautiful, eco-friendly depressions planted with native species that soak up runoff and filter pollutants.
- Best for: Minor drainage issues, environmentally conscious homeowners
- Bonus: Enhances curb appeal and supports local wildlife
Innovative & Modern Alternatives
We’re always looking for new solutions, like prefabricated drainage composites (J-Drain), gravel-free French drain alternatives, and permeable paving for driveways and patios. Sometimes, a custom blend of traditional and modern systems delivers the best results.
How to Choose the Right Drainage Solution for Your Home
Choosing the best drainage solution isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s our step-by-step approach:
- Identify the Problem: Is your issue surface water (puddles, pooling) or subsurface water (soggy ground, wet basements)?
- Assess Your Yard: Consider soil type, slope, landscaping, and proximity to your foundation.
- Think Long-Term: What’s your budget? How much maintenance are you comfortable with? Are aesthetics a priority?
- Get Expert Help: A professional assessment ensures you’re not just treating the symptoms.
As we tell our clients: “The right drainage solution is the one that fits your property, your needs, and your peace of mind. We’re here to walk you through every step.” We’ve helped countless local homeowners weigh their options and find the perfect fit.
Why Trust Van Matre Construction for Drainage & Grading in Colorado?
When it comes to protecting your home, experience matters. At Van Matre Construction, we bring over two decades of local expertise to every project. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch service, using only the highest quality materials and the most advanced equipment.
Why choose us?
- 20+ years of experience in Colorado’s unique environment
- Custom drainage solutions for every property
- Honest assessments and transparent pricing
- Full range of services: foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and more
- Commitment to education and customer care
As our owner puts it, “We’re not just fixing water problems—we’re helping you protect your investment for years to come. That’s a responsibility we take seriously, and it’s why so many clients trust us with their homes.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you’re dealing with soggy soil or a wet basement, a French drain might be your answer. For surface pooling or runoff, a catch basin or grading may be more effective. Not sure? We’ll help you assess your situation.
Still have questions? Contact us for personalized advice.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Proactive drainage management isn’t just about keeping your yard dry—it’s about protecting your biggest investment and ensuring your family’s comfort and safety. Whether you’re facing a persistent wet spot or planning a major landscaping overhaul, you deserve expert guidance and solutions that last.
At Van Matre Construction, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our team brings local expertise, genuine care, and proven results to every project. Don’t wait for the next big storm—request a free consultation today and discover how we can help you keep your home safe and dry for years to come.
Internal Links:
- Drainage & Grading Services
- Foundation Repair
Outbound Resource:
For more on best practices in stormwater management, visit the EPA’s stormwater program.
“The single most important thing a person can do to improve the health of their foundation, thereby avoiding a wet basement, is to keep water away from the foundation in the first place.”
