Yard Keeps Flooding Toward the House in Burlington, WI

Stop Water From Pooling Against Your Foundation

If your yard keeps flooding toward the house in Burlington, WI, you are not alone. Our area sees heavy spring rains, fast snowmelt, and clay-rich soils that drain slowly. Water collects, flows toward low spots, and often ends up at the basement wall. Left alone, that water can stain walls, cause musty odors, and lead to costly foundation damage. The fastest way to turn the problem around is to bring in experienced drainage and grading contractors who can reshape the land, move water to safer locations, and protect your home for the long term.

RLP Diversified, Inc has helped Wisconsin homeowners solve yard flooding since 2000. Our team designs and installs proven drainage and grading fixes tailored to your soil, slope, and structures. We handle everything from diagnosis and design to excavation, grading, and cleanup, so you get one accountable partner and a dry, stable yard.

Why Your Yard Is Flooding Toward the House

In Burlington, the mix of weather, soil, and building layouts creates common drainage problems. Understanding the cause is the first step to a lasting solution.

Clay and compacted soils slow infiltration so water pools on the surface and finds the path of least resistance toward the foundation.
Improper grading leaves a flat or negative slope that directs stormwater toward the home instead of away.
Short or clogged downspouts dump roof runoff near the basement wall, which overwhelms the soil and footing drains.
Settled backfill around the foundation creates a shallow trough that traps water against the house.
Hard surfaces like patios, sidewalks, or driveways can send concentrated runoff toward entry points and garage slabs.
Snow piles placed next to the house melt quickly on warm days and send steady flows into window wells and basement cracks.
Undersized or damaged yard drains and culverts restrict flow and cause water to back up into low areas.
Neighboring properties with higher elevations may shed runoff across your lawn if swales and shared drainage routes are missing or blocked.

Why You Should Fix Yard Flooding Now

Water at your foundation is more than an inconvenience. It can create long-term damage that is expensive to reverse. Acting now limits risk and saves money.

Foundation stress and cracking as wet soil expands and contracts with freeze and thaw cycles.
Basement leaks, musty odors, and mold growth that threaten indoor air quality and stored belongings.
Soil erosion that exposes roots, undermines patios, and destabilizes steps and walkways.
Heaving and uneven concrete from water trapped beneath slabs during cold snaps.
Standing water that attracts mosquitoes and pests and damages turf.
Overworked sump pumps that run constantly, risk failure, and drive up electric costs.

How Professional Drainage and Grading Contractors Fix It

Effective drainage plans do more than add a single pipe or trench. The best results come from combining slope correction with sensible water capture and discharge. As a trusted Burlington area contractor, RLP Diversified, Inc designs systems that respond to your property’s unique shape and soil. We use the right tools and quality materials so your yard drains in all seasons.

Targeted Solutions That Work in Burlington, WI

Regrading with positive slope to push water away from your house for at least the first 6 to 10 feet.
Swales that guide surface water along a shallow grassy channel toward a safe outlet.
French drains that intercept subsurface water with a perforated pipe and washed stone, then carry it to a discharge point.
Downspout extensions and solid pipe that move roof runoff 10 to 20 feet away from the foundation.
Catch basins and yard drains in low spots to collect water and route it through smooth, buried piping.
Dry wells or infiltration trenches for areas with no storm sewer access, designed for soil type and expected flow.
Retaining walls with weep drains in sloped yards where soil pressure and runoff combine.
Driveway and patio drainage with channel drains or permeable surfaces to stop sheet flow at critical entry points.
Sump discharge rerouting that prevents recycled water from returning to the foundation.
Pond excavating and shoreline protection when a decorative or functional water feature is the best solution for large volumes.

Our Step by Step Process

On-site assessment where we walk the property, review problem areas, and note structure elevations and low points.
Laser level checks to measure current grade and set correct slope benchmarks.
Soil review to see how quickly the ground absorbs water and to plan for clay, silt, or sandy loam conditions.
Utility locates to protect gas, water, electric, cable, and sewer lines before any digging.
Design and proposal with a clear plan, materials, and options based on your budget and long-term goals.
Permitting guidance when required by the City of Burlington or county for grading or connections.
Installation with skilled operators using Caterpillar, Bobcat, and New Holland equipment for precise cuts and compaction.
Backfill and finish grading to establish solid subgrades and smooth, safe final slopes.
Topsoil, seed, and erosion blankets so the area recovers quickly and holds grade through weather.
Final walk-through and maintenance tips to keep the system flowing at peak capacity.

Most small to mid-size drainage fixes take one to three days. Larger projects with multiple drains, walls, or driveway work may take a week or more, depending on weather and material lead times.

Signs You Need Drainage and Grading Work

Watch for these red flags around your Burlington home. The more boxes you check, the more likely you need a professional plan.

Puddles or spongy lawn that linger for 24 hours or more after rain.
Water lines or mineral stains on the foundation wall.
Peeling paint, musty odors, or visible mold in the basement.
Efflorescence, a white powder crusting on masonry from evaporating water.
Downspouts blasting holes in mulch or soil near the foundation.
Runoff channels cutting through mulch beds and along fence lines.
Sump pump cycling frequently even during light rain.
Icy patches near walkways or the garage in winter.

Custom Solutions For Burlington Homes and Lots

Burlington and western Racine County present unique drainage challenges. Many neighborhoods near the Fox River, Browns Lake, and nearby wetlands have high seasonal water tables. Soils are often clay or compacted from past construction, and that slows infiltration. Our team designs for these realities. We set drains at correct elevations, avoid discharging onto sidewalks or neighbor lots, and consider floodplain rules, swale easements, and storm sewer access where it exists. When a connection to an existing culvert or storm line is possible, we size the piping and set the slope to maintain flow. When an infiltration solution is better, we right-size dry wells and stone trenches so they actually work in our soils.

RLP Diversified, Inc Services That Solve Flooding

RLP Diversified, Inc began as an excavating and grading company in 2000 and expanded even further in 2013 by integrating Andy’s Excavating. Today we support homeowners, builders, and municipalities across the state with reliable crews and modern equipment. For drainage and grading projects in Burlington, these services make the difference.

Grading and earthmoving for rough and finish grading, foundation backfill correction, topsoil spreading, and lawn seeding.
Excavating for trenching French drains, yard drains, and sump discharge lines, plus scraping and shaping swales and ditches.
Aggregate and trucking to deliver topsoil, fill dirt, sand, stone, gravel, and limestone, which keeps timelines tight and quality consistent.
Pond excavating and shoreline stabilization when your property benefits from a controlled water feature or shoreline protection.
Demolition and concrete recycling if old slabs, patios, or structures must be removed to correct slope or add new drainage.

We run equipment from Caterpillar, Bobcat, and New Holland to match the scale of your yard, from tight-access mini machines to larger earthmovers for bigger projects. While our headquarters is in Burlington, we regularly serve Milwaukee, Waukesha, Madison, Racine, Mequon, Kenosha, and Green Bay. That reach and fleet help us secure materials fast and complete jobs efficiently.

What To Expect For Cost and Timeline

Every yard is different, and pricing reflects the length of piping, the amount of dirt to move, and the level of finish you want. As a general guide:

Downspout extensions with buried solid pipe may range from modest to moderate costs depending on distance and number of runs.
French drains typically cost more due to excavation depth, stone, filter fabric, and piping. The total depends on length and soil conditions.
Swales and regrading ranges vary with the amount of cut and fill, access for equipment, and sod or seed finish.
Catch basins, dry wells, and channel drains add parts and labor, and need careful elevation work for performance.

Our team provides clear, line-item quotes so you can prioritize what matters most. Many projects wrap up in one to three days. Weather delays are rare but can occur in heavy rain or deep freeze conditions. We always communicate schedules in advance, protect your property during work, and clean up when finished.

DIY vs Hiring Drainage and Grading Contractors

Some small improvements, like adding gutter extensions, can help. For lasting results, grading and drainage require precise elevations, compaction, and safe discharge points. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:

DIY pros include lower upfront cost and flexibility on timing.
DIY cons include the risk of incorrect slope, poor pipe placement, damage to utilities, and solutions that do not hold up through freeze and thaw cycles.
Hiring pros like RLP Diversified, Inc brings experienced operators, laser grading, the right materials, and a system approach that stops water at the source.

Maintenance Tips After Your Yard Is Fixed

Good drainage is a system. A few simple habits keep it performing for the long term.

Clean gutters and downspouts twice a year and after major storms.
Keep at least 5 to 10 feet of downspout extension or buried pipe directing water away from the house.
Mow swales with care and avoid ruts, which can trap water.
Check drain grates and catch basins for leaves and debris, especially in fall.
Inspect sump pump discharge lines before winter to avoid freezing issues.
Replace mulch that washes out and add edge restraints to keep paths open for water.
After heavy storms, walk the yard to confirm water flows to the intended outlet.

Common Questions From Burlington Homeowners

Will grading or trenching damage my lawn?

We plan access routes to minimize disturbance. We strip and set aside topsoil when needed, then replace and finish grade. Most projects receive new topsoil, seed, and erosion blankets so the lawn establishes quickly. In warm months, you will see grass within a few weeks with proper watering.

Do you work in winter?

Yes, many drainage and grading tasks can be done in winter, especially during mild stretches. Some soil work and seeding are best in spring, summer, or early fall. If winter work makes sense for your schedule and the weather cooperates, we will plan accordingly.

How deep should a French drain be?

Most French drains sit 12 to 24 inches below grade, deeper if needed to intercept specific flows or to maintain slope to the outlet. The key is the elevation difference between inlet and discharge and using clean stone and fabric to prevent clogging.

Do I need a permit in Burlington?

Simple downspout extensions usually do not. Larger grading changes, connections to storm sewers, or work in easements may require approval. RLP Diversified, Inc helps you navigate local rules and coordinates with the city when permits are needed.

What if the water is coming from my neighbor’s yard?

Wisconsin follows reasonable use for stormwater. You cannot block natural drainage and force water back onto a neighbor, and they cannot concentrate flow onto your property. We design swales and drains that manage water on your lot and, when needed, coordinate shared solutions across property lines or within drainage easements.

Why Choose RLP Diversified, Inc

Experience that spans more than two decades solving drainage and grading problems across Wisconsin.
Expanded capabilities after integrating Andy’s Excavating in 2013, which strengthened our team and fleet.
Full-service approach that includes design, excavating, grading, material delivery, and site restoration.
Modern equipment from Caterpillar, Bobcat, and New Holland for precision and efficiency.
Quality materials, including clean stone, proper filter fabrics, and stable backfill for long-term performance.
Clear communication, detailed proposals, and reliable schedules.
Local knowledge of Burlington soils, weather, and permitting.
Service area that includes Milwaukee, Waukesha, Madison, Racine, Mequon, Kenosha, and Green Bay for regional projects.

Get a Free Quote in Burlington, WI

If your yard keeps flooding toward the house, take action now. RLP Diversified, Inc offers free, no-pressure quotes and practical solutions that protect your home and yard. Our drainage and grading contractors will assess the problem, design a plan that fits your property and budget, and complete the work with care. Reach out today to schedule your assessment and stop water damage before the next storm.

Yard Keeps Flooding Toward the House in Burlington, WI