Metairie · Drainage & patios · 4 min read
Water pooling on your Metairie patio? Check the drainage first.
Before resurfacing a patio that holds water, find out where the water comes from and where it can safely go. A new coating or sealer does not correct a low spot or an unsuitable slope.
By Gulf South Concrete · Homeowner guide
Observe the water without stepping into it
From a safe, dry position during or after rain, note where water reaches the patio: roof runoff, a downspout, nearby paving or the yard. After the rain, photograph the areas that remain wet. Include the patio edge and nearby door thresholds, not just the puddle.
In a Metairie backyard, fences, neighboring yards and additions can limit available drainage routes. Do not assume the lowest edge is an acceptable outlet. Any change needs to account for your property, adjacent property and applicable local requirements.
Separate a drainage issue from a surface issue
A low panel or unsuitable slope can retain water even when the finish looks good. Surface wear, algae or a failing sealer may affect appearance and traction, but treating the surface alone does not change its elevation.
NRMCA guidance calls for slabs and their supporting subgrade to be sloped for proper drainage. The appropriate design depends on door heights, adjoining surfaces and where water can be managed. Avoid a universal slope recommendation without seeing those constraints.
Repair, replace or expand?
If an otherwise sound patio has a localized problem, ask whether a targeted solution is feasible. If the concrete is badly deteriorated or the layout cannot drain effectively, replacement may be worth comparing. An estimator should explain why the recommended option fits the condition.
For an expansion, review how new concrete meets the old patio, the joint locations and the drainage route across both areas. More patio space should not mean more runoff directed toward a door or a neighboring property.
Choose an outdoor finish with care
Discuss traction as well as appearance, especially by pools, steps and doors. NRMCA identifies a broom finish as an option for better traction on exterior concrete. Stamped textures and sealers vary, so request a sample and product-specific care instructions.
Do not cover structural damage with a decorative finish or assume a shiny sealer is suitable for every outdoor surface. Cleaning and sealing recommendations should match the concrete, finish and product.
What to include in your quote request
- Your Metairie address and approximate patio size
- Photos of puddles after rain and nearby doors
- Downspout locations and adjoining yard or pavement
- Whether the patio will be replaced or expanded
- Your preferred finish and any pool-side use
Source & scope
NRMCA CIP 4 — Subgrade, drainage and exterior finishesGeneral homeowner information, not an engineering assessment. Site conditions and repair suitability require an on-site review.
