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How to Get Rid of Stagnant Water

How to Get Rid of Stagnant Water

Fewer things are more frustrating than finding a standing puddle of water, whether in your basement or on your lawn. It’s particularly irritating if it isn’t from a recent rainstorm.

If you find standing water on your property, it’s best to get rid of it as soon as possible. Leaving it can lead to many problems, such as mold, pests, and plant death.

Here’s a guide on how to get rid of stagnant water once and for all.

What Is Stagnant Water?

Water stagnation is when water stops flowing and has no way to drain. In landscaping, it’s typically due to the water not reaching the surface of the soil. Other particles and compounds occupy the space where the fluids need to go to drain.

Stagnant water can also occur inside the home. Not only can it be harmful to your health, but it can also cause a wide range of structural issues. Like outdoor puddles, you should remove the puddles inside right away.

There are a few primary causes of standing water, such as heavy rain, overwatering plants, and poor plumbing. Finding yourself dealing with stagnant puddles can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, removing the standing water is relatively easy.

How to Get Rid of Stagnant Water

The first step towards getting rid of standing puddles is to identify the source. Once you know what’s causing the stagnation, finding the right solution will be far more manageable. Check out these common methods of removing excess fluids from your property.

Use a Pump

If you’re trying to remove a puddle inside your home, you can use a pump to get rid of most of the excess liquid. If the puddle is shallow, you can even use a towel or rag to soak up the moisture.

After getting rid of the standing water, be sure to remove any damaged materials as they could cause mold to grow inside your dwelling.

Finally, use a dehumidifier and a few fans to get rid of any excess moisture. You can rent professional-grade tools for affordable rates to get the job done quickly.

Upgrade Your Plumbing

Faulty plumbing can cause numerous issues within your abode. Old pipes can cause leaks, which will eventually lead to standing water.

As a rule of thumb, you should have a professional plumber inspect all your systems every two years. If you haven’t had an inspection or just recently moved into an old house, it may be best to call your local plumber right away.

Plumber Inspecting Pipes

Add a French Drain

A French drain is a fancy term for digging a ditch in your yard. It consists of gravel and a pipe that allows water to flow from your grass to a drain or storm barrel. A French drain effectively gets excess fluid out of your lawn and off your property.

You can also construct an interior French drain to help funnel water out of your home. These work exceptionally well in basements or other areas that collect moisture.

Read more: How to clean and maintain a french drain

What Are the Dangers of Stagnant Water?

Stagnant puddles are not only unsightly, but they can also cause damage to your home and your health. As a result, it’s best to get rid of the problem as soon as you spot it. Here are the reasons why standing puddles can be dangerous for your dwelling:

  1. Mold thrives in dark and damp environments. Spores can start to grow within 24 to 48 hours, and breathing in mold spores can cause significant respiratory problems, especially for those with asthma and allergies.
  2. Bacteria, like mold, like to live in wet areas. Although we rely on some species of bacteria for our health, several species can be harmful to humans. Coming into contact with these bacteria and touching your face/eyes can lead to several health issues.
  3. Pests and insects need moisture to survive, and some thrive on it. A small puddle in your yard can quickly become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, flies, gnats, and other unpleasant critters. Some insects carry diseases that may present severe health risks for you and your family.

How to Prevent Stagnant Water

Like most issues, prevention is often the best course of action. Here are some ways you can prevent standing puddles from occurring on your property:

  • Make sure all your plumbing systems are up to date.
  • Use some of the strategies above to ensure your yard has proper drainage.
  • Upkeep your soil regularly so that fluids can enter the surface.
  • Make sure your lawn is level.

Get Rid of Stagnant Water Today!

No doubt, dealing with constant puddles in your yard or home can be quite a headache, especially when stagnant water leads to water damage, leaks, or mold. Fortunately, you can do something about it.

At All Dry USA, we’ve helped countless homeowners solve a vast array of issues, keeping their properties functioning at their best all year round. Contact our team today to learn more about our services for water damage, mold remediation, and more.

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