Backyard Grading and Sod

This Client’s 1940’s home had a backyard that sloped towards the home. Water would damn up between the garage and patio causing flooding and foundation moisture issues. We excavated the yard back and sloped the lawn to divert most runoff away from the patio. Additionally, we installed a french drain along the garage and patio with a yard drain in the low point of the yard and this remedied any remaining moisture issues. We hid the gravel drains behind a perennial shade garden and the client loved it! Since the grass was primarily for dogs we went with a golf course grade rhizomatous tall fescue sod which is heat resistant and self-repairs small dead spots. Lastly, we split some hydrangeas and liriope from the yard and planted them along the back along with a few boxwood to frame out the back without adding on to the budget. The results were a lush, cohesive landscape without buying a single new bush! The lawn has held up well to three big dogs in a small yard and the free bushes all thrived! Proof that a little creativity and flexibility with clients can create great spaces without a huge budget.