Recent weather reports put Syracuse as the wettest city in Upstate New York. It had 6 weeks of consecutive rain, which is 6 days more than average. It’s also higher than the record of 50 days in 1936.
That increase in water means an increased need for improved drainage. Homeowners need to find better ways to get the water away from their homes so it doesn’t pool up and cause structural damage.
A French drainage system is a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing option. It also lasts for 30-40 years.
How do you know when your system is reaching the end of its useful years? Read on to learn eight signs of a failing French drainage system in Syracuse, NY.
1. Standing Water
Start gauging the health of your drainage system by going outside. If it can’t do the one thing it’s meant to do, it’s time for repairs.
Do you notice pools of standing water in your yard? Do they stick around after heavy rains?
This means your system can’t drain water like it’s meant to anymore. The problem can be caused by issues such as:
- Clogged drains
- Damage to the pipes
- Inadequate slopes
These pools of water are more than unpleasant. They’ll become stagnant if they sit for too long. This turns them into a breeding ground for a variety of pests. They’re also a risk factor for water damage inside your home.
2. Flooded Basements
Pooling water from a failing French drain doesn’t only have to appear outside. It can also show up inside. One of the first places you’re likely to see it is in your basement.
Pipes near the basement can get damaged, clogged, or leak. This leads to visible signs of water damage such as:
- Increased humidity
- Watermarks
- Cracking
- Mold or mildew
- White powder on the walls
You’ll need to call drain repair services in Syracuse to fix these issues before they become serious. The problem could spread to other areas of your house and create even worse water damage.
3. Foundation or Slab Problems
One of a drainage system’s most important jobs is to keep water away from your foundation and concrete slab. If it can’t, you could be left with serious structural problems.
Look out for signs such as:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Uneven floors
- Sloping doors and windows
The sooner you fix these structural problems, the better. Fixing a small foundation crack is relatively fast and inexpensive. It’s a preferable alternative to getting an entirely new foundation.
4. Clogged Pipes or Water Drainage Issues
The pipes in a French drainage system can get blocked or clogged with sediment or debris over time.
You may also experience water drainage issues that make your pipes drain slowly. This is another sign that you have a blockage.
Cleaning out the clog may be enough to get the system working again. That’s not always the case. The damage could be so severe you need to repair or replace pipes or even your entire system.
5. Erosion
Check to see if the soil around the drain has become eroded. The change isn’t always isn’t easy to spot, but catching it early can prevent severe damage.
Eroded or collapsing soil is a problem because it can also lead to a collapse of the entire system. Water may start flowing back towards your home, damaging the foundation and other structures.
6. Sediment or Debris
One of the best French drain maintenance tips is to be proactive. If you want to keep your drain system running as long as possible, you have to regularly inspect it along all points.
Go to the outlet and see if there’s any sediment, mud, or debris being pushed out. That’s a sign that you have a clog that needs clearing out.
The type of system you have helps determine how often you’ll need to check it for sediment or debris buildup. Drains with pipes that are less than four inches wide are especially prone to clogs from mud. Make sure to check for any buildup at least twice a year.
7. Pests or Mold
A variety of pests love the stagnant water that a failing French drainage system tends to create. They include:
- Mosquitoes
- Termites
- Mice
- Rats
Have you been swarmed by these pests every day? Has nothing you tried been able to get rid of them? You might not have been looking closely enough at your drains.
Water damage is also the reason behind cases of mold in the home. The spores can be dangerous to your health, especially if you have a respiratory condition such as asthma. They can also impact the structural integrity of your home.
Fixing your drainage system will get rid of both of these problems. No more water damage means no more mold. The pests will also leave when there’s no more stagnant water to live in.
8. Unpleasant Odors
French drain troubleshooting isn’t only done with the eyes. It’s also done with the nose.
A normal, fully functioning system shouldn’t produce any noticeable odors. When it starts to give off a foul smell, that’s a sign that something is wrong.
The problem could be as simple as a clog from debris or dirt. It could also be a sign of stagnant water. It could even be the first warning of a serious issue such as a sewage backup.
Don’t take any of these odors lightly. If your drainage system starts to smell differently than it normally does, it’s time to call in the professionals for help.
Talk to the French Drainage System Experts in Syracuse
A French drainage system is an effective and long-lasting drainage option, but all good things must come to an end. Signs that it might be reaching the end of its lifecycle include stagnant water, flooded basements, foundation or slab problems, clogged or slow-draining pipes, erosion, sediment or debris buildup, pest activity, mold, and unpleasant odors.
Syracuse Drains are the most effective and affordable Syracuse drainage experts. We’ll solve your issue and then clean up the mess without using harsh chemicals. We’re available 24/7, so contact us today.