Why Winter Standing Water Is Worse Than Summer Water

Standing water is always bad… but winter makes the consequences far more severe.

1. Cold weather keeps water sitting longer

Shorter days + lower temperatures = slower evaporation.
Water remains trapped around the foundation for days — even weeks.

2. Soil expands and contracts

As wet soil freezes and thaws, it pushes against your foundation walls, creating long-term structural stress.

3. Mold and moisture accumulate

Cold, damp air moves into crawlspaces and basements, causing:

• Musty odors

• Mold growth

• Wood rot

• Poor indoor air quality

4. Grass and plants are dormant

Roots aren’t actively absorbing water in winter.
Whatever puddles… stays.

5. Hidden grading problems become visible

Winter exposes the truth about your yard.
If you see puddles now, your slope is wrong — guaranteed.

How Decorative Gravel & River Rock Protect Your Home

While most people think of decorative gravel and river rock as aesthetic choices, The Dirt Doctor uses them strategically as a functional waterproofing system.

1. They Encourage Fast Drainage

Gravel and river rock create permeable surfaces that help water:

• Move

• Filter

• Absorb

• Redirect

This keeps high-moisture areas from pooling.

2. They Prevent Soil Erosion

Heavy winter rains wash away dirt, exposing roots and weakening slopes.
River rock acts as an anchor that stabilizes soil even during heavy storms.

3. They Protect Your Foundation Perimeter

When placed around the home, river rock allows water to dissipate instead of trapping it against the structure.

4. They Create French Drain Enhancement Zones

If you already have drainage systems, gravel and rock improve flow and reduce clogging.

5. They Add Winter Curb Appeal

While plants are dormant, hardscapes stand out — giving your yard a clean, intentional, finished look.

Where The Dirt Doctor Uses Gravel & River Rock for Maximum Results

• Foundation Perimeter Beds

Stops soil from splashing against the home and allows controlled drainage.

• Downspout Termination Zones

Prevents mini “ponds” where water dumps.

• Low Spots & Problem Areas

Gravel and rock help water escape instead of sitting.

• Dry Creek Beds

A functional AND beautiful drainage solution.

• Underground Drainage Support

Placed around French drains, catch basins, and drain lines for optimal performance.

Signs You Need Winter Drainage Help Immediately

You should call The Dirt Doctor if you notice:

• Standing water that lasts more than 24 hours

• Soft, spongy ground

• Water pooling near the foundation

• Downspouts causing erosion

• Muddy walkways or side yards

• A musty smell in the crawlspace or basement

• Green algae forming in puddled areas

These are warnings — not inconveniences.

The Dirt Doctor’s Winter Warning

“If your yard is holding water in the winter, it’s not resting — it’s rotting.”

Standing water doesn’t go away on its own.
Foundation problems don’t fix themselves.
And drainage issues only cost more the longer they’re ignored.

Winter is the perfect time to repair drainage problems because:

• Plants are dormant

• Soil is easier to reshape

• Materials are more accessible

• You’re protecting your home before spring rains hit hard

  Protect Your Home Before Winter Damage Sets In

Brooks Landscaping specializes in:

• Decorative gravel installations

• River rock drainage systems

• Dry creek beds

• Foundation waterproofing

• Downspout extensions

• French drains

• Yard regrading

If you’re seeing puddles, mud, or moisture around your home this winter, you’re not just dealing with an eyesore — you’re facing a foundation threat.

Let The Dirt Doctor diagnose your yard before the damage gets worse.

📞 Call Brooks Landscaping Today: 678-200-6087
🌐 Visit: www.BrooksLandscapingGa.com
📍 Serving Paulding County, Dallas, Hiram, Kennesaw, Acworth & surrounding Georgia communities.

Brooks Landscaping — We Make Dirt Look Good™