When You Live on Clay, Water Doesn’t Just Soak In
Erie, CO has some of the most clay-heavy soil on the Front Range. That means when it rains — or snow melts — water doesn’t disappear. It collects. It floods crawlspaces. It kills turf. It ruins patios. In this post, we’ll share a few real examples of drainage problems we’ve fixed in Erie and explain the solutions that worked.
The Problem:
New build in Erie Commons had downspouts draining just 2 feet from the foundation, causing water to enter the crawlspace and pool in mulch beds after snowmelt.
Our Solution:
Buried all downspouts with 4" solid pipe
Extended discharge to the back alley at grade
Regraded foundation perimeter to a 2% slope
Installed splash rock zones and edge barriers
Result:
Dry crawlspace, soggy beds eliminated, and cleaner foundation lines.
The Problem:
Flatiron Meadows homeowner had a large, flat yard with no pitch. After every thaw, mud tracked inside and lawn remained unusable for weeks.
Our Solution:
Laser-leveled yard and regraded with 3" of topsoil
Installed 40' dry creek bed along fence line
Added French drain behind turf zone
Installed new sod with compost till-in
Result:
No standing water, lush green turf, and an attractive hardscape feature.
The Problem:
Erie Highlands home’s aging flagstone patio settled, causing water pooling near steps and dangerous ice buildup in winter.
Our Solution:
Removed existing flagstone
Re-excavated and added 6" compacted Class 6 base
Integrated channel drain at edge
Re-installed with polymeric joint sand and sealed edges
Result:
Stable, well-drained patio surface — safe, dry, and durable.
The Problem:
Homeowner’s sump pump discharged directly into street, causing ice patches and algae; HOA issued violation.
Our Solution:
Rerouted sump pump through 1.5" discharge line
Directed outlet to concealed drywell in side yard
Added backup surface drain for overflow
Result:
No more HOA citations, legal drainage, and improved yard aesthetics.
Customized, site-specific solutions — no “one size fits all” fixes
Deep knowledge of local soil and water dynamics
Commitment to durable, long-term results — not quick patches
Let us walk the site, identify the issue, and give you options that work — backed by real local experience.