Construction Gravel

How Gravel Solves Standing Water Problems in Your Yard

If summer storms are leaving behind standing water in your yard, you’re not alone—many Virginia homeowners face the same frustrating issue. Pooling water can drown your lawn, attract pests, and even cause long-term damage to your foundation. At Mercury Mulch, we help homeowners solve these problems with one of the most effective and affordable drainage solutions available: gravel. Whether you’re planning a French drain, patio, fire pit, or walkway, the right gravel can dramatically improve water flow and eliminate soggy trouble spots in your landscape.

Why Gravel Is Ideal for Drainage

One of gravel’s biggest advantages is its permeability. Unlike compacted soil, gravel lets water drain quickly and evenly. When used beneath a project or layered in a low-lying area, gravel encourages proper water movement and helps prevent standing water. It also resists erosion and supports long-term stability in outdoor spaces.

Gravel is a go-to material for homeowners and contractors tackling backyard drainage problems, especially in coastal Virginia, where water tends to linger.

Fixing Drainage with a French Drain

A French drain is one of the most effective systems for redirecting groundwater away from your home or landscaping. It consists of a perforated pipe buried in a trench lined with gravel. This gravel not only surrounds and protects the pipe but also filters debris and guides water downward, improving flow and preventing blockages.

According to The Home Depot, “Gravel acts as a filter and provides support for the drain pipe, keeping the system working efficiently for years.”

Whether you’re hiring a contractor or installing it yourself, you’ll need quality drainage gravel—something Mercury Mulch delivers right to your driveway.

Build Smarter: Gravel for Patios, Fire Pits & Walkways

If you’re installing a patio, fire pit, or gravel path, drainage should be part of your plan from day one. Without a proper base, water can collect under your pavers, shift the surface, or create muddy walkways.

A compacted gravel base beneath patios and walkways provides even support and allows water to pass through without pooling. Around fire pits, gravel offers a level, fire-safe, and low-maintenance surface that reduces weed growth and enhances your outdoor space.

Local Gravel Delivery Made Easy

At Mercury Mulch, we are delighted to offer an extensive selection of high-quality gravel types tailored for your upcoming project. Whether you require gravel for drainage, creating walkways, or designing a fire pit, we are committed to providing you with the perfect material, delivered promptly and in the right amount. 


For over thirty years, we have proudly served homeowners, landscapers, and contractors throughout the Hampton Roads area, consistently ensuring exceptional customer service and quality landscaping materials.

Don’t Wait—Get the Right Gravel Delivered Today

If you’re tired of dealing with puddles, mud, or runoff, Mercury Mulch is here to help. Contact our team at (757) 219-2033 to schedule fast and reliable gravel delivery in Hampton and the surrounding areas, including Newport News, Poquoson, York County, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Isle of Wight.



Bloodworth Rowe, Jane. 2019. “Coastal Country | Soil Type Makes All the Difference in How Your Garden Grows.” The Virginian-Pilot, July 26, 2019. https://www.pilotonline.com/2019/04/14/coastal-country-soil-type-makes-all-the-difference-in-how-your-garden-grows/.

TWG Writer

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