If you’re dealing with standing water, soggy spots, or runoff that won’t go away, you’re not alone. Homeowners across Monroe, Matthews, Waxhaw, and surrounding North Carolina areas face yard drainage issues, especially after heavy rains. While water is essential for a healthy lawn, too much of it in the wrong places can wreak havoc—damaging your foundation, drowning plants, and making your yard unusable.

Two of the most common drainage solutions we offer at D & L Landscape Pros are French drains and grading. But which is the best choice for your yard? Let’s break down what each method involves, when it’s best used, and how to decide what works for your property.

What Is Grading?

Grading is the process of reshaping the slope of your yard or landscape to direct water away from your home, foundation, or low-lying areas. It’s all about using gravity to naturally guide water where it should go—typically away from structures and into designated drainage areas.

How Grading Works:

• Soil is added or removed to adjust elevation.

• The ground is sloped to create a natural runoff path.

• Often used near foundations, driveways, or patios to redirect water.

Benefits of Grading:

• Passive solution—no pipes or mechanical systems involved.

• Long-term and low-maintenance once properly done.

• Can improve lawn health by preventing over-saturation.

Best For:

• Yards where water collects near the foundation.

• Properties that already have a gentle slope but need adjustment.

• Large open areas where water needs redirection.

Keep in Mind:
Grading requires expertise in reading elevations and understanding water flow. A poorly graded yard can make the problem worse, not better.

What Is a French Drain?

A French drain is a trench-based drainage system that uses perforated piping surrounded by gravel to collect and redirect water underground. It’s especially useful in areas where surface grading alone can’t solve the issue.

How French Drains Work:

• A trench is dug and filled with gravel.

• A perforated pipe is placed inside, typically wrapped in landscape fabric.

• Water flows into the pipe and is carried away from problem areas.

Benefits of French Drains:

• Great for underground water or areas with poor soil drainage.

• Works well in flat yards where water has nowhere to flow.

• Can be used in combination with sump pumps for added control.

Best For:

• Yards with persistent soggy spots or pooling water.

• Low-lying areas that can’t be fixed with grading alone.

• Areas near retaining walls, patios, or driveways with water runoff issues.

Keep in Mind:
Installation requires digging and often some disruption to landscaping. It’s best done by professionals to ensure proper slope and drainage flow.

Comparing Cost: Grading vs. French Drains

Grading:
Grading is often more affordable, especially for smaller yards or minor adjustments. Costs will depend on how much soil needs to be moved and if any machinery is required. It’s generally a one-time investment with minimal long-term upkeep.

French Drains:
French drains tend to cost more due to the materials involved (gravel, piping, fabric) and the labor required for trenching and installation. However, for many properties, it’s the only reliable solution—especially if water is collecting underground.

At D & L Landscape Pros, we provide upfront estimates and walk you through both options so you can make the best choice based on your yard and budget.

Which Is More Effective?

Grading is more effective when:

• Water is running toward your home or pooling on the surface.

• You want a natural solution with minimal maintenance.

• The slope of your yard can be adjusted without affecting structures.

French drains are more effective when:

• Water is collecting underground or in specific low spots.

• You’ve already tried grading but the issue persists.

• You need to control water near a driveway, retaining wall, or other hardscape.

Can You Use Both?

Absolutely. In fact, combining grading and French drains is often the best approach for properties with complex drainage issues. For example, we might regrade your lawn to push water away from your house, then install a French drain in the yard’s lowest point to handle excess runoff.

This two-part strategy offers both surface and subsurface drainage, creating a more complete solution that protects your lawn, garden beds, and foundation.

Warning Signs You Need Drainage Help

Not sure if you need a French drain, grading, or both? Watch for these red flags:

• Water pooling for more than 24 hours after rain.

• Soggy spots where grass dies or mushrooms grow.

• Basement dampness or foundation cracks.

• Erosion or exposed tree roots.

• Muddy walkways or spongy lawn areas.

If you’ve seen any of these, it’s time to call a professional for an evaluation.

Trust the Local Experts

At D & L Landscape Pros, we’ve helped homeowners across Monroe, Waxhaw, Matthews, and Indian Trail solve their toughest yard drainage problems. Our team evaluates each property individually—looking at elevation, soil type, water flow, and landscaping goals.

We don’t just install systems—we create long-lasting drainage solutions tailored to your yard and budget. Whether it’s grading, French drains, or both, we handle the job start to finish with minimal disruption to your property.

Final Thoughts: What’s Right for You?

Choosing between a French drain and grading depends on your specific drainage problem. Grading is a great first step for surface-level water control, while French drains are best for deeper or more persistent water issues.

Not sure which one you need? That’s what we’re here for.

Contact D & L Landscape Pros today for a free on-site drainage evaluation. We’ll walk your yard, identify problem areas, and recommend the best solution to keep your lawn dry, safe, and beautiful year-round.