Hardscape guide

Drainage Considerations Before Exterior Construction

Exterior work changes how water moves. Drainage should be reviewed before adding patios, walls, walkways, concrete or landscape features.

Finished river-rock drainage channel and planting
Serving homes, strata properties and commercial buildings across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

Follow water from source to outlet

Consider roof runoff, downspouts, slopes, hard surfaces, low points and where water ultimately leaves the area.

New hard surfaces change runoff

Concrete and pavers shed water faster than soil. The layout must provide a suitable direction and outlet.

Walls and grade changes can trap water

Retaining walls, borders and raised beds should not block drainage or direct water toward the building.

Questions

Questions property owners often ask

Straight answers help clients decide what to do next.

Are photographs during rain useful?

Yes. They can show flow direction, ponding and overflow that may not be visible when the site is dry.

Can a drain solve every low area?

No. A drain needs a suitable outlet, grade and maintenance. Surface grading may still be required.

Should downspouts discharge onto a patio?

Discharge should be planned so water does not create ponding, erosion or building exposure.

Start with clarity

Talk through the condition before deciding what to do.

Contact Axis Point Contracting Ltd. with the property details and the concern you are seeing.

Call Axis PointRequest Assessment