Installing a drainage system at home plays a crucial role in the health and safety of your home. It helps remove excess water from your property, preventing water damage to your foundation, basement, and plumbing systems. A well-designed system also helps avoid backups that can cause sewer overflows into your home, storm drains or sewer systems in your community.
A well-designed and installed system can lower your risk of basement flooding, sewer backups, and groundwater contamination. They help protect the environment by keeping water away from sensitive areas. If you’re planning to install a drainage system at home, follow these five steps to ensure you get it right.
Why is drainage system important?
A sound drainage system can help improve the overall health of your yard or garden by ensuring proper runoff and reducing soil erosion. This can prevent excess water from damaging your landscaping and relevant structures such as buildings, walkways, and foundations.
If you live in a low-lying area, installing a drainage system that will prevent water from pooling and causing flooding is vital. A well-designed drainage system can help control weeds and invasive plants, which can harm your yard or garden.
Aside from these benefits, a sound drainage system will also help protect your lawn or garden from damage caused by heavy rainfall. This is because it will prevent excess water from washing away nutrients essential for healthy plant growth.
What materials are needed for drainage systems?
Installing drainage systems is essential for any property that deals with heavy rain or melting snow. They help control water and prevent flooding while saving money on costly repairs. Before you begin constructing a drainage system, check with local authorities regarding the regulations and guidelines for the area.
Generally, the materials needed for drainage systems include PVC pipes, gravel, and fittings. PVC pipes can be used for drains around foundations, walkways, and patios. These can be purchased in various diameters and lengths to accommodate any sized project.
Gravel is essential for a successful drainage system. It requires no permission or special license to use, is relatively inexpensive (prices start from $6 per bag), and provides excellent filtering properties. To create a perfect drainage path, dig out the desired depth of the ditch using a shovel or garden trowel.
Once the trench is fully excavated, line it with gravel using a garden hose or a hand trowel to ensure even coverage.
Finally, install the drainage piping pieces in the trench using an adjustable wrench or pliers and secure them with appropriate fittings per local specifications. Once the entire system is completed and inspected for proper functioning, fill in the ditch using soil from your backyard or nearby sources such as mulch or compost.
How to choose the right type of drainage system?
When choosing a drainage system, it is essential to understand how they work. A linear system consists of multiple pipe segments connected end-to-end with no junctions in between. This allows for easy installation and disposal of excess water without disrupting the surrounding soil. This requires a greater surface area for proper functioning.
A circular system consists of multiple pipes connected at regular intervals around a circle. It boasts an easy installation and waste elimination capability but doesn’t offer as much surface area for optimal performance as other types.
A grid system consists of rows and columns of perforated pipe segments interconnected with fittings at regular intervals. This type offers steady flow and high durability but can be costly to install and maintain due to the number of junction points.
Consider the type of soil and climate in your area.
When selecting a drainage system for your home, it’s essential to consider the type of soil and climate in your area. Heavy clay soils may require a more complex drainage system with deeper trenches and larger pipes. Rooms with high water tables or frequent rain showers may need more extensive methods, including catch basins or sump pumps. Finally, it’s essential to consider the size of your yard and the potential for flooding when selecting a drainage system.
Check local regulations and building codes.
Local regulations and building codes can significantly determine the type of drainage system you can use and how to install it properly. Before starting the installation process, it’s essential to check with local authorities about any required permits or licenses and the local requirements for the type of drainage system you plan to use. For example, catch basin drains are typically reserved for no more than 10% of the overall volume of the catchment area. They are not intended for heavy storm run-off or direct vehicle traffic.
Choose the right size and type of drainage system.
When installing a drainage system, it’s essential to choose the right size and type of system that fits your home’s specific needs. For example, trench drains are suitable for areas with high runoff, while dry well systems can be used in places with little water. Sump pumps are an ideal option for homes that experience flooding, while some plans may include surface or buried drainage pipes to handle both liquid and solid waste. It’s also critical to consider the material used for the drainage system and ensure it is durable and long-lasting. Finally, when choosing a drainage system, be sure to take local regulations and building codes into account.
Decide between a DIY installation or a professional installation.
When installing a drainage system, it’s essential to consider the size and type of system that is right for your home. DIY installation can be done with inexpensive materials and tools, but professional installation may be necessary for more complex systems. The soil in your yard will also affect the type of drainage system you should install. The location of your storm drains, gutters, and downspouts should also be considered when planning a drainage system. Finally, ensure that the drainage system is installed correctly to prevent flooding and water damage.
How to maintain your drainage system?
Drainage systems play an essential role in maintaining the water conditions in your home. However, it’s vital to check and monitor them regularly for any signs of damage or blockages. This includes inspecting your system after every heavy rain to check for leaks and any remaining debris.
Also, it is essential to use a drain snake or auger to remove any obstructions from the system. This will help prevent clogs and ensure the optimal functioning of the drainage system. Chemical cleaners can clear out buildup in the pipes as needed. Rooter machines can be used if there is a lot of root growth in the pipes. It is vital to have the system professionally cleaned and inspected every two years to ensure it functions correctly and without issues.
Benefits of installing a drainage system at home
A drainage system is an excellent investment if you’re looking to improve your home’s appearance and functions. Drainage systems help to prevent flooding, water damage, and sinkholes in your home by collecting excess rainwater and directing it away from your property. Not only do they promote better water quality and health, but they also reduce soil erosion and can help improve air circulation.
A well-designed drainage system also helps to conserve water by collecting runoff and storing it for later use. This helps to prevent flooding during periods of heavy rainfall and helps decrease the risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
Investing in a drainage system can improve the overall quality of your home environment and enhance its functionality.
Conclusion
A drainage system is an essential part of any home. Not only does it help keep your home dry and mold-free, protects your property from water damage and improves the overall indoor air quality. While implementing a drainage system can seem like a daunting task, we’re here to assure you that it’s not as complex as it looks. Follow the five steps mentioned above to get started. If you’re looking for professional assistance, contact us today!
