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Pennsylvania Water Control

In Pennsylvania’s climate, with frequent rain, snowmelt, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, many residential properties experience common water issues such as pooling in yards, soggy soil near foundations, and runoff that can erode landscaping or stress basement walls. Without proper management, rainwater and shallow groundwater can lead to soft spots in lawns, water intrusion near structures, and long-term soil saturation that undermines plant health and outdoor usability.

Effective rain and groundwater control helps direct water away from vulnerable areas, reduces erosion and standing water, and protects both the aesthetic and structural integrity of homes and yards. By addressing these issues early with thoughtful grading, drainage features, and surface water redirection, homeowners can preserve their landscape, avoid costly repairs, and enjoy outdoor spaces that remain dry, stable, and functional throughout the year.

Why do we have water problems?

Lot's of Rain

On average, Pennsylvania gets around 40–45 inches of precipitation per year (rain plus the liquid equivalent of snow), which is above the national average of about 30 inches per year.

No Time to Dry

When it comes to sunshine, Pittsburgh averages around 160 sunny days per year, while the U.S. average is closer to 205 sunny days.

Your Dirt is Clay

When clay soil becomes saturated, it expands and grows heavier, increasing pressure on foundations, retaining walls, and buried structures, then shrinks and hardens during dry periods, creating cracks that trap water again during the next rain.

Grass is mowed

A heavy thatch layer acts like a barrier between rainwater and the soil, preventing water from soaking in properly. Instead of infiltrating, water tends to sit on top of the thatch or run across the surface, increasing pooling and runoff.

Effects on Foundations

When water is not properly directed away from a home, it increases hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls. Saturated soil becomes heavier and exerts lateral force, which can lead to wall bowing, cracking, and mortar joint failure. Over time, repeated wetting and drying cycles allow water to infiltrate through small cracks, causing basement seepage, efflorescence, mold growth, and deterioration of concrete or masonry. In colder months, trapped moisture can freeze and expand, accelerating structural damage through frost action.

Effects on Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are particularly vulnerable to poor water control because they are designed to resist soil pressure, not water pressure. Without proper drainage, water builds up behind the wall, dramatically increasing lateral loads. This can cause walls to lean, crack, bulge, or fail entirely. In severe cases, trapped water leads to sudden wall collapse, erosion at the base, or loss of backfill material.