01/25/2026
Lake Arrowhead Project | From Fence to Full Drainage Solution
This project in Lake Arrowhead started out simple — we were originally hired to build a fence.
Once we got on site, the homeowner asked if there was anything that could be done about the slick, steep hill leading down to the basement entrance. When it rained, that slope became unsafe and nearly impossible to walk down.
That’s when this project really took shape.
We designed and built a custom stair system to create safe access to the basement from the outside. While doing that work, we began addressing the water issues causing the hill to stay slick in the first place.
As we dug in, we realized the existing French drain wasn’t installed correctly and wasn’t doing its job. After evaluating how water was moving down the hill, it became clear that one drain wasn’t enough. The solution ended up being five total French drains to properly intercept and redirect the water.
The excavated dirt was originally supposed to be reused for raised beds, but none of it was suitable fill, so we also brought in 7 yards of clean soil to complete the beds correctly.
To slow down and safely redirect surface water coming downhill, we also installed a dry creek bed, which helps control runoff while blending naturally into the landscape.
What started as a fence turned into a full access and drainage solution — improving safety, protecting the home, and fixing problems that would’ve only gotten worse over time.
Projects like this are a good reminder that the right fix isn’t always the fastest one — it’s the one that actually solves the problem.
📍 Lake Arrowhead
📸 Photos below show the process and final result