The land around your house should slope gently away from the walls. If the ground slopes toward the house, rainwater will pool near the foundation, leading to dampness and erosion. Adding soil and compacting it to create a slope is an inexpensive fix.
Essential Drainage Fixes to Keep Your Home Dry and Strong
Water management is one of the most overlooked parts of construction in The Gambia. Poor drainage around a house is one of the main reasons walls stay damp, foundations weaken, and mould spreads indoors. Fortunately, there are several simple, cost-effective drainage solutions that every home should have.
Proper Ground Slope
Gutters and Downpipes
A good roof overhang isn’t enough on its own. Gutters collect roof water and direct it safely away from the foundation through downpipes. Without them, water falls directly next to the walls, causing damp patches and splash-back damage.
Soakaways (Water Pits)
Downpipes should not just empty next to the wall. Instead, connect them to soakaway pits filled with gravel. These pits allow water to seep slowly into the ground instead of flooding the area around the house.
French Drains
For areas with persistent flooding, a French drain (a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe) can redirect water away from the home. This is especially useful for compounds where rainwater collects in low spots.
Yard Landscaping
Planting grass or ground cover reduces erosion and prevents rainwater from turning soil into mud. Bare earth quickly becomes waterlogged, keeping the surrounding air damp and feeding mould growth.
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Takeaway
A dry house starts outside. By investing in good drainage, homeowners can extend the life of their walls, protect against mould, and reduce the need for costly repairs.