Why Your Patio Needs Drainage, Too

When planning a patio, most homeowners focus on materials, layout, and design—but drainage is just as critical to long-term success. Without proper water management, even the most beautiful patio can quickly become a costly, frustrating problem.

At SoFranko Contracting, we specialize in concrete patios and understand how essential drainage is to protecting your investment. Here’s why your patio needs a smart drainage solution—and how we can help.

Standing Water Isn’t Just an Eyesore

Puddles on your patio after a rainstorm may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they often signal underlying drainage issues that can lead to:

• Surface damage: Water that pools and freezes can cause cracking or pitting in concrete

• Moss and algae growth: These create slippery, unsafe surfaces

• Foundation damage: Improper drainage near the house can direct water toward your home’s foundation

• Soil erosion: Water runoff can wash away landscaping and destabilize the patio’s base

➤ The takeaway:

Water that sits is water that ruins.

Sloping Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

Every patio needs a slight slope away from the home to direct rainwater to a safe area. A flat or improperly pitched patio will trap water and cause premature wear.

At SoFranko, we ensure your patio is professionally graded to direct water safely—away from your home and toward appropriate outlets.

French Drains: A Smart Solution for Tricky Yards

For yards with poor drainage, heavy clay soil, or sloped terrain, a French drain can be the perfect solution. These underground drainage systems collect and redirect water to prevent flooding and patio damage.

Why homeowners choose French drains:

• Subtle and discreet—doesn’t interfere with your landscape

• Protects both patios and foundations

• Helps manage gutter runoff or water from nearby slopes

SoFranko Contracting specializes in installing French drains alongside patios and retaining walls, ensuring complete water control across your outdoor spaces.

Edge Drains and Channel Drains: Targeted Protection

For patios that collect water in specific areas—like near steps, walkways, or retaining walls—channel drains and edge drains offer targeted relief.

These systems catch water right at the source and redirect it into underground piping or away from vulnerable areas.

We’ll evaluate your property and recommend the most effective options based on site grading, rainfall, and hardscape layout.

Retaining Walls and Drainage Go Hand-in-Hand

If your patio is built into a hillside or includes elevation changes, retaining walls are often needed to hold soil in place—and these must include drainage features like weep holes, gravel backfill, and drain tile to prevent pressure buildup from trapped water.

SoFranko Contracting builds structurally sound retaining walls with the correct drainage from day one—protecting both your patio and your property.

The SoFranko Advantage: Built to Last

When you hire SoFranko, you're not just getting a patio—you’re getting a durable outdoor space that’s designed to withstand the elements. Our attention to proper grading and drainage ensures your investment looks great and functions properly for years to come.

What we bring to your project:

• Expert site assessment

• Knowledge of Pittsburgh’s freeze-thaw climate

• Seamless integration of patios, drains, and retaining walls

• Transparent communication and quality workmanship

Protect Your Patio From the Ground Up

Don’t let poor drainage destroy your outdoor space. Whether you’re installing a new patio or correcting issues with an old one, SoFranko Contracting has the expertise to deliver a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your patio—and your home—from water damage.