How To Correct Standing Water Issues

The need to correct standing water goes beyond aesthetics. Water that lingers on pavement can weaken the surface over time. Asphalt and concrete are porous materials that can absorb moisture. When that moisture freezes and expands, it cracks the pavement, leading to potholes and further structural damage.

Standing water also attracts pests like mosquitoes and can be a slipping hazard for both pedestrians and vehicles. And if the problem is near a building, it could affect the foundation, especially during freeze-thaw cycles.

Common Signs You Need Standing Water Correction

You might not always notice standing water immediately, especially if it forms after heavy rain and disappears within hours. But a few telltale signs can alert you to the need for intervention. Persistent damp areas, moss or algae growth, pavement softening, and water lines or stains are all indicators that your drainage is compromised.

In parking lots, areas where asphalt looks oily or has a wavy texture might be places where water has sat repeatedly. If left unaddressed, these signs can turn into major repair jobs.

Steps to Correct Standing Water

Correcting standing water requires a clear, step-by-step approach tailored to the unique conditions of your property. Below are some of the most effective methods used to diagnose and fix standing water problems.

1. Assess the Area: Start by identifying where and when the standing water occurs. Is it in a low spot? Near a drain? Close to a building? Understanding the behavior of the water is critical to applying the right fix.
2. Check the Grade: Use a level or a professional grade-checking tool to ensure your surface has the correct slope. For most paved surfaces, a minimum slope of 1% to 2% is recommended to encourage runoff. Anything flatter than that may need to be regarded.
3. Clear Existing Drains: Sometimes, correcting standing water is as simple as cleaning out debris. Clogged storm drains or catch basins can create backups even if the surrounding surface is properly graded.
4. Install Additional Drainage Solutions: French drains, trench drains, and permeable pavers can all help fix standing water issues. These systems redirect or absorb excess water before it can pool.
5. Regrade or Repave: In more severe cases, the best way to correct standing water is to adjust the entire surface. This might involve grinding down high spots or adding a new layer of asphalt with an improved slope.
6. Improve Surrounding Landscaping Sometimes, the problem isn’t the pavement but the land around it. Sloping lawns or compacted garden beds can funnel water toward paved surfaces. Aerating soil or adding swales and berms can help.

Choosing the Right Materials for Standing Water Correction

Not all pavement materials respond the same way to water. When correcting standing water, consider switching to or incorporating porous asphalt or concrete. These materials are designed to allow water to pass through the surface and into a stone recharge bed below, reducing surface runoff.

Geotextiles and sub-base materials also play a role in successful drainage. When repaving, make sure your contractor is using a layered approach that includes a well-compacted base and appropriate drainage layers.

When to Call in the Pros

DIY solutions can work for minor cases, but persistent problems often need a professional evaluation. A pavement or drainage contractor will have the tools to accurately assess grade, identify sub-surface issues, and propose long-term solutions to fix standing water.

Professionals also ensure that any corrections meet local building codes and environmental guidelines. For example, commercial lots may need specific permits for certain types of drainage systems.

Maintaining the Fix

Correcting standing water isn’t a one-and-done deal. Regular maintenance is key to keeping drainage functional. Clean drains regularly, inspect surfaces for settling or cracking, and keep vegetation trimmed back from drainage paths.

During winter, make sure snowmelt has somewhere to go. Ice dams and blocked drains can quickly bring back standing water problems even after you’ve made corrections.

Correcting Standing Water in Asphalt Surfaces