Monday, August 19, 2013

Trobleshoot and fix A Dry Well That Isn't Working

Properly working dry wells can promote lawn health


Dry wells are used for drainage from non-septic utilities, gutter downspouts and areas with standing water. They are simply ditches dug in the ground leading from the area of the problem to a ground well in a more suitable area. A drainage pipe is placed into the drainage ditch, spanning the length of the ditch, to help direct water from the problem to the solution area. The well is simply a hole in the ground that the drainage pipe feeds into, and is at least partially filled with rocks to aid drainage and prevent collapse. Often, however, sand, silt and dirt clog the well, creating a need for repair.


Instructions


1. Dig up the existing drainage ditch and well, using a shovel, and keep the dirt and gravel nearby.


2. Check the walls of the well for residue buildup and suitable ground soil. If a scummy or waxy appearing residue has built up on the landscaping fabric lining the walls, attempt to clean it off, or else replace the fabric all together. If the soil seems compacted and unable to absorb groundwater, the drainage ditch should be rerouted to a more suitable location.


3. If the well must be relocated, the new ditch should be about 1 foot deep. The new well should be at least 2 feet deep and 16 inches wide. Fill the old ditch and well with fill dirt after removing the drainage pipe. Ensure that the filled area is level or higher than the surrounding ground, and packed well.


4. Check the PVC drainage pipe for clogs by pumping water into it through a hose. If the water backs up, there is a clog in the pipe. Dislodge the clog, if possible. If the clog cannot be dislodged, replace the PVC drainage pipe.


5. Once drainage issues have been solved and/or the PVC pipe has been replaced, add 12 to 16 inches of gravel to the well, and cover the well and ditch with dirt.








Related posts



    Most drywall repairs require just a few simple tools.Although drywall is not as durable as some other wall coverings, such as wood paneling, one of its advantages is the ease with which you can ma...
    Water flow in your garden and related irrigation is a critical aspect of good garden management, probably as critical as having water to sustain your plants in the first place. The concept include...
    Maple trees need ample water and sunlight to flourish. In areas where the soil is mainly hard, compacted clay, extra effort is necessary to care for the trees so they retain water, yet excess mois...
    Cracks regularly appear in cement walkways, porches and driveways often because of shrinkage in the concrete mixture creating tension that pulls and tears on the structure. It may also be caused b...
    Gravel improves drainage.Pea gravel, tiny stones that are 3/8-inch in diameter, is incorporated into clay soil to provide drainage and ease compaction. Pea gravel alone, however, will not benefit...