How To Fix A Patio That Holds Water

How to Fix a Patio That Holds Water

A patio is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it can be frustrating if it holds water after it rains. Standing water can create slippery surfaces, attract mosquitoes, and even damage the patio itself. If your patio is holding water, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.

1. Check the slope

The first thing you should do is check the slope of your patio. The patio should be sloped away from the house so that water can drain off. If the patio is not sloped properly, water will pool in low areas and create puddles.

To check the slope of your patio, you can use a level. Place the level on the patio and see if the bubble is centered. If the bubble is not centered, the patio is not sloped properly.

2. Clean the gutters

If the gutters around your house are clogged, water can overflow and pool on your patio. Make sure to clean the gutters regularly to prevent this from happening.

3. Seal the cracks

Cracks in the patio can allow water to seep through and pool on the surface. To fix this, you can seal the cracks with a concrete sealant.

To seal the cracks, first clean the cracks with a wire brush. Then, apply a concrete sealant to the cracks using a caulk gun. Allow the sealant to dry completely before using the patio.

4. Install a French drain

If the above solutions do not work, you may need to install a French drain. A French drain is a trench filled with gravel that helps to drain water away from the patio.

To install a French drain, dig a trench around the perimeter of the patio. The trench should be about 6 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Line the trench with gravel and then cover the gravel with soil.

5. Regrade the patio

If the patio is not sloped properly, you may need to regrade it. Regrading involves removing the existing patio and then sloping it away from the house. This is a more difficult project than the other solutions, but it is the most effective way to fix a patio that holds water.

Conclusion

If your patio is holding water, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. Check the slope of the patio, clean the gutters, seal the cracks, install a French drain, or regrade the patio. By following these steps, you can keep your patio dry and enjoyable all year long.