Read the water path
The first step is understanding where water starts, where it concentrates, and where it can move without creating another problem.
Drainage + grading
Move water with a plan—not another temporary fix.
Water problems are rarely isolated. We read the whole property—roof water, neighboring grades, soils, hardscape, low areas, and safe outlets—before recommending a solution.
Walk the property with usHow Elzo approaches the work
Use the lightest effective system
Sometimes careful regrading is enough. Other sites need collection, solid pipe, drain rock, or coordinated hardscape correction.
Restore the surface
Drainage work should finish as a usable yard, with repaired lawn, planting, paths, and transitions—not a trench left behind.
Project scope
What this work can include
- ↗Positive grading near foundations
- ↗Downspout routing
- ↗Catch basins and solid pipe
- ↗Low-spot and runoff correction
- ↗Erosion repair
- ↗Patio and walkway drainage
Before we build
Good questions,
straight answers.
How do you know whether a yard needs grading or a drain?+
We look at elevation, soil, contributing water, outlet options, and how quickly the area recovers. The right answer may be grading, collection, conveyance, or a combination.
Can drainage work be combined with a patio or landscape renovation?+
Yes. Coordinating the work often produces a cleaner result because elevations, base preparation, planting, and outlets can be designed together.
Will a French drain solve every wet-yard problem?+
No. A drain without a suitable outlet or without correcting the source may underperform. The system should match the actual water pattern and soil conditions.
Can you repair the lawn after grading?+
Yes. Finish restoration can include soil preparation, seed or sod, and clean transitions into existing beds and hardscape.
Where we work
Minneapolis and the Twin Cities
A better first step
Let’s look at the real property.
Bring the wish list, the water problem, the worn-out patio, or the yard that never quite worked. We’ll help you understand what belongs in the plan.
Book an on-site consultation