How to Stop Water from Pooling on My Pool Deck or Patio
A pool deck or patio should be a place to relax, not a spot where water lingers after every rainstorm. If you’ve noticed puddles sticking around for hours, or even days, after Florida’s heavy rains, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in DeLand, Orange City, DeBary, Deltona, Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, and Daytona Beach deal with the same issue.
The good news is, there are proven ways to fix it. Let’s look at why water collects on patios and pool decks in Central Florida, and how the right drainage system can keep your outdoor spaces safe, dry, and enjoyable.
Why does water pool on patios and pool decks?
Our unique Central Florida environment plays a big role:
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- Heavy rainfall: Sudden downpours can overwhelm surfaces that don’t have proper runoff paths.
- Flat terrain: Many properties in Volusia County and nearby areas lack natural slope, so water just sits instead of flowing away.
- Sandy soils: While sandy soil drains faster than clay, it can shift under hard surfaces, causing low spots where water collects.
- Runoff from neighbors: If nearby yards are graded higher than yours, rainwater may flow directly onto your property.
The result is standing water that not only looks bad but can also create slippery surfaces, damage pavers, and contribute to long-term erosion around your pool or patio.
Why standing water is a bigger problem than you think
Water that doesn’t drain properly can cause more than just inconvenience:
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- Safety hazards: Slick surfaces increase the risk of slips and falls, especially around pools.
- Material damage: Over time, water seeps into concrete, pavers, and grout lines, causing cracks or uneven settling.
- Mosquito breeding: Stagnant water becomes a perfect breeding ground for pests.
- Foundation risks: If water lingers near your home’s structure, it can contribute to erosion or moisture problems.
Fixing these drainage issues isn’t just about appearance, it’s about protecting your investment and making your outdoor spaces safe to use year-round.
Effective solutions for pool deck and patio drainage
At Tree of Life Landscaping, we’ve installed hundreds of drainage systems across Central Florida. As a Certified NDS Drainage Contractor, we use industry-leading materials and proven techniques to solve water problems for the long term. No two patios or pool decks are the same, so the right solution depends on where the water is coming from, how your property is graded, and what type of surface you have. Here are some of the most effective options we use to keep patios and pool decks dry:
Channel and strip drains
Channel drains (also called strip drains) are long, narrow grates installed directly into the surface of your patio or pool deck. They:
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- Collect water at the surface and direct it into underground piping
- Sit flush with the surface, so they don’t interfere with walking or furniture
- Work especially well around pools where splashing creates frequent runoff
Learn more about patio, driveway, and pool deck drainage.
French drains
If water is pooling around the edges of your deck or seeping into surrounding landscaping, a French drain may be the right choice. French drains:
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- Use perforated pipe, gravel, and filter fabric to redirect water underground
- Prevent erosion in sandy soils around patios and pool decks
- Are effective for moving water away from low-lying yard areas
Drain boxes
Low spots near patios or pool decks are common collection points for stormwater. Installing a drain box offers several benefits:
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- Captures water in the lowest areas before it spreads across hard surfaces
- Connects to underground piping to carry water safely away
- Can be combined with French drains or channel drains for stronger results
Downspout tie-ins
In many cases, the biggest source of water near a patio or pool deck isn’t rainfall, it’s roof runoff. A downspout drainage system can:
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- Redirect gutter water before it reaches your patio or pool deck
- Protect hard surfaces from constant runoff and water staining
- Reduce erosion in nearby lawns and garden beds
Often, the most effective drainage plan combines multiple solutions. For example, tying roof downspouts into a French drain that connects with drain boxes creates a complete system that keeps water moving safely away from your outdoor living areas.
How long do these drainage systems last?
When installed correctly, drainage systems around patios and pool decks can last for decades. At Tree of Life Landscaping, we use durable NDS components, gravel, and filter fabric to prevent clogs and keep everything flowing. With proper installation, you won’t have to worry about replacing your system every few years.
That’s one reason why we’ve earned a 4.9-star Google rating with over 60 verified reviews, homeowners trust us to build drainage systems that work and last.
Local expertise matters
The flat lots and sandy soils in Central Florida require specialized solutions. What works in another state may not work here. That’s why choosing a local company with hands-on experience is so important.
At Tree of Life Landscaping, we understand the unique challenges homeowners face in DeLand, Orange City, DeBary, Deltona, Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, and Daytona Beach. We’ve designed custom drainage systems for properties just like yours, and we know how to adapt each project to the local terrain.
What’s the first step?
The first step is identifying where the water is coming from and how it’s moving across your property. From there, we can recommend the best system, whether that’s a channel drain, French drain, drain box, or a combination.
If you’re curious about pricing, try our Drainage Cost Calculator. It’s a simple way to get a quick online estimate before scheduling a consultation.
Don’t let water ruin your outdoor space
Your patio or pool deck should be a place to enjoy Florida’s sunshine, not stress about standing water. With the right drainage system, you can protect your home, keep your outdoor spaces safe, and get back to enjoying your yard.
If you’re dealing with pooling water in DeLand, Orange City, DeBary, Deltona, Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, or Daytona Beach, we can help.
