Des Moines Dry Creek Bed Installation Services

Let’s face it—simply laying down some rocks won’t solve your soggy lawn or muddy pathways. Dry creek beds are only effective when they’re designed with the right grading, equipped with genuine inlets, and constructed from the correct mix of stones over a solid foundation. Our skilled team specializes in creating creek beds that efficiently channel stormwater while seamlessly integrating into your landscape’s aesthetic—making your yard a gorgeous sight year-round!

What’s the Problem?

Are you experiencing any of these common issues around your Des Moines property?

• Water constantly streaming across your lawn or walkway?
• Downspouts washing away mulch and soil during heavy rains?
• A soggy side yard with no natural drainage?
• A “decorative creek” that’s become a weed patch?

What We Build (form + function)

Our dry creek beds are crafted with both functionality and beauty in mind:

• Authentic flow path — a shallow swale graded at ~1–2% to ensure water flows smoothly.
• Layered rock mix — incorporating large cobbles for the banks, midsize river rock in the main channel, and finer stones only where needed to stabilize the structure.
• Splash pads & inlets — reinforced areas under downspouts and pipe outlets to prevent erosion.
• Check stones / weirs — creating subtle “riffles” to slow water flow, reduce erosion, and mimic natural streams.
• Hidden structure — a solid sub-base using non-woven geotextile to efficiently separate layers.
• Smart outlets — ensuring safe drainage to a lawn basin, drain inlet, or dispersion trench/dry well when regulations allow.
• Native planting — selecting local grasses, ferns, and shrubs that enhance the beauty of your creek bed while attracting pollinators.

Remember: a dry creek addresses surface water, while a French drain manages subsurface water. Often, a combination of both is the best solution. We’re here to provide honest, tailored guidance for your specific needs.

How We Install (no shortcuts)

Our installation process is meticulous, ensuring quality and durability at every step:

1. Site Evaluation & Elevations — We assess grades, map runoff patterns, and identify suitable legal outlets.
2. Utility Locate — Safety first! We call 811 before any digging begins to ensure no underground lines are disturbed.
3. Excavate the Channel — We prepare the subgrade, shape pools and riffles, and widen bends to secure the stone properly.
4. Fabric & Base — We lay down non-woven geotextile over clay and a compacted crushed rock base where soils are soft.
5. Place Stone by Size — We start with larger cobbles for the banks, then fill mid-channel, carefully setting “keystones” at bends.
6. Construct Inlets/Outlets — We create armored downspout pads, pipe boots, and discreet check stones.
7. Backfill & Edge — We ensure fabric edges are buried, transitioning smoothly to mulch or lawn with no visible fray.
8. Plant & Mulch — We choose the right plants for sun/shade and splash zones, adding mulch where appropriate.
9. Hose Test — We run water through your new creek bed to ensure proper flow before we wrap up.

Note: If your discharge touches the street or public systems, rest assured we’ll comply with all regulations. If not feasible, we’ll design an onsite solution that meets all requirements.

Sizing & Ordering (so the numbers pencil)

• Coverage per yard of cobble/river rock (rule of thumb):

  • 1 yd³ covers ~80–100 sq ft @ 3–4” depth (using mixed sizes).

• Channel volume per linear foot:

  • 2.5’ avg width × 0.33’ avg depth ≈ 0.83 cu ft/LF → ~32 LF per yd³.

• Add 10–15% for lock-in and banks; curves and splash pads consume more rock.

For example: For a 24’ run × 2.5’ width × 4” depth, you’d need approximately 2.2 yd³ → we recommend ordering 2.5–3 yd³ (varying sizes).

Where Dry Creek Beds Shine

Here are some fantastic benefits of installing a dry creek bed in your Des Moines yard:

• Downspout dispersion — Manage roof runoff without extensive trenching across your property.
• Side-yard corridors — Create a clear, clean path for water, eliminating muddy patches.
• Path crossings — Seamlessly integrate stepping stones into the creek for easy, daily use.
• Rain-garden pairing — Allow the creek to carry away excess water while the rain garden absorbs it; a perfect duo!

Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Routine)

To keep your dry creek bed looking its best, we offer an annual maintenance plan that includes:

• Leaf & Debris Sweeps — Keep the channel clear before the first big fall storm hits.
• Rock Reset — Rake fines out of the channel and reposition any stones that may have shifted after heavy rains.
• Plant Care — Trim back any encroaching plants to maintain clear flow lines.
• Inlet/Outlet Check — Ensure splash pads are clear and downspouts are still directing water onto the rocks.
• Top-Ups — A little fresh stone every few years keeps your creek bed looking pristine and secure.

Our goal is to be your low-maintenance landscaping crew—fewer puddles, cleaner beds, and less work for you!

Service Cadences (Pick What Fits)

Choose the maintenance schedule that works best for your property:

• Quarterly — Ideal for fall storm prep, winter and spring checks, plus a summer tidy-up.
• Bi-Monthly — Perfect for yards with heavy leaf drop or significant slope flow.

What Annual Maintenance Includes

When you sign up for our annual maintenance, you’ll receive:

• Debris removal and flow checks with a hose test.
• Rock re-seating and minor grade adjustments.
• Inspection and touch-ups for downspout pads.
• Plant cutbacks and light mulch refresh at banks.
• Photo updates so you can see your creek bed in action!

Why Annual Maintenance Matters

Here’s why keeping up with maintenance is crucial:

• Prevents blowouts — Open channels don’t undercut banks, preserving your landscape.
• Keeps water moving — Helps avoid slick, muddy spots that can be hazardous.
• Looks better for longer — Fresh stone and tidy plants enhance your yard’s appearance.
• Saves money — Regular adjustments are far less costly than major rebuilds.

How It Works

Our process is straightforward and hassle-free:

1. Free Estimate — We offer clear, upfront pricing through photos, videos, or a quick walkthrough.
2. Design & Materials — We’ll help you determine the best path, depth, rock mix, and planting plan.
3. Build Day — Our team will excavate, install fabric/base, set stone, plant, test flow, and leave a clean finish.
4. Follow-Up — We provide simple care tips and a maintenance schedule tailored to your needs.

Why Des Moines Chooses Neat & Tidy

• A local crew that understands Des Moines’s unique clay pockets, winter rains, and tight alleys.
• Licensed & insured; we adhere to all codes for safe outlets and tidy job sites.
• Transparent pricing — all costs for materials, labor, hauling, and disposal included.
• Committed to on-time, respectful, and clean work.
• Eco-friendly approach — promoting natural infiltration and smart water dispersion.

Ready to transform your soggy yard into a scenic masterpiece?

Call or text Neat & Tidy today for a dry creek bed that not only looks great but also functions perfectly. We’ll keep it tidy—so you don’t have to!