If your yard feels more like a sponge than a sanctuary this time of year, you’re not alone. Winter rain in Clark County has a way of revealing drainage problems that stayed hidden during drier months. Puddles that won’t disappear, muddy lawns, and soggy planting beds are more than seasonal annoyances – they’re often signs of underlying drainage issues that can affect the health of your landscape and even your home.
Understanding what to look for now can save you time, money, and frustration when spring arrives.
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Why Drainage Is Such a Common Issue in Vancouver, WA
Southwest Washington’s climate is beautiful – but wet. Between steady winter rain, compacted soils, and many neighborhoods built on clay-heavy ground, water doesn’t always move where it should.
Add in:
- Older properties without modern drainage systems
- Newer developments with altered grading
- Heavy foot traffic and equipment compacting soil
…and it’s no surprise that drainage issues are one of the most common problems local homeowners face.
Signs Your Yard Has a Drainage Problem
Some drainage problems are obvious. Others are subtle and easy to ignore – until they get worse. Here are the most common red flags we see after winter rain:
Standing water
If puddles linger for more than 24–48 hours after rainfall, your yard isn’t draining properly.
Muddy or spongy lawns
Lawns that feel soft underfoot or never seem to dry out are often compacted or poorly graded.
Water pooling near foundations
This is one of the most important signs to address quickly. Poor drainage near your home can lead to foundation issues, crawlspace moisture, and long-term structural concerns.
Moss, algae, or fungus growth
Excess moisture encourages moss and algae—especially in shaded areas.
Plant decline or root rot
Plants sitting in saturated soil can suffocate at the roots, leading to yellowing, wilting, or sudden die-off.
Why “Just Waiting Until Summer” Isn’t the Best Plan
It’s tempting to assume drainage issues will resolve themselves once the rain stops. Sometimes they appear to, but the underlying problem is still there.
Poor drainage can:
- Weaken lawns and make them more susceptible to weeds
- Shorten the lifespan of hardscapes like patios and walkways
- Erode soil and expose roots
- Cause long-term damage to foundations and retaining walls
Addressing drainage in late winter or early spring allows solutions to be implemented before the heavy growing season—and before small problems turn into expensive repairs.
Common Drainage Solutions (And When They Make Sense)
Not every drainage issue requires a major overhaul. The right solution depends on the severity of the problem, soil conditions, and the layout of your Vancouver property.
Grading and re-sloping
Sometimes the issue is as simple as water flowing toward the wrong place. Adjusting slope and contours can dramatically improve drainage.
French drains or channel drains
These systems redirect excess water away from problem areas and foundations.
Dry creek beds
A functional and attractive way to manage surface water while adding visual interest to the landscape.
Soil amendment and aeration
Compacted soils benefit from aeration and organic matter to improve water absorption.
Permeable hardscapes
Replacing or upgrading patios and walkways with permeable materials allows water to pass through rather than run off.
A professional assessment helps determine whether a targeted fix or a more comprehensive drainage plan is the smartest long-term solution.
How Drainage Affects the Rest of Your Landscape
Drainage isn’t just a “problem area” issue—it impacts everything.
Good drainage:
- Supports healthier lawns and plantings
- Protects patios, walkways, and retaining walls
- Improves usability of outdoor spaces
- Extends the life of your landscape investment
When drainage is handled properly, everything else—from planting design to outdoor living spaces—performs better.
Why February Is a Smart Time to Evaluate Drainage
Winter rain actually makes drainage problems easier to diagnose. You can see where water collects, where soil erodes, and how runoff behaves across your property.
By addressing issues now:
- You’re ahead of the spring rush
- Solutions can be integrated into broader landscape plans
- Your yard will be ready for planting season, not recovering from it
Trusted Landscape Drainage Experts in Vancouver, WA
Drainage problems are common in Vancouver, WA, but they’re also highly fixable when addressed early and correctly. If your yard struggled through this winter, now is the perfect time to take a closer look and plan solutions that protect your home and improve your outdoor space for years to come.Our team at Greenhaven has years of experience problem solving for our Clark County soil and rain. Contact us today!