Table of Contents
Drainage Systems
This is the process to remove excess water from the ground surface or the root zone called drainage Too much-using irrigation water, rainfall, etc causes excess water.
Excess water on the land surface may be removed by a surface drainage system through channels or ditches. Some of the different types of surface drainage systems are open drains, humps, hollows, etc.
The Field drainage system controls the water table and The main drainage system collects, transports, and disposes of the water through an outlet. Sub-surface or surface water from a given area is removed by drainage.
Within a private or public property, the pipe lies that conveys rainwater, sewage, and other liquid waste to a point of disposal, is included under the drainage system.
To maintain healthy conditions in a building, the drainage system collects and removes wastewater. It also prevents the gases of sewers and septic tanks from entering residential areas.
Drainage Systems, French Drains, Surface Drains End Drainage Problems, Yard Water
From flooding and other drainage problems, crawl spaces are protected by foundation drainage systems. Surface drain and French drain installation give the solution to drainage problems. Other yard drainages systems like sump pumps and channel drains are the best solution.
Also Read: Wet Slab Foundation Drainage Issues and Prevention
About French/surface Drainage Systems
The details about the Surface and French drainage system are given below-
Surface drainage is used to minimize surface water while French drains are used to prevent groundwater from seeping beneath foundations. Surface drains move large amounts of water quickly and are utilized to stop standing water and yard flooding.
4-inch flexible PVC pipe and 9-inch by 9-inch or 12-inch by 12-inch area drains are included in the surface drainage system. This system is used to collect water at ground level and channel it away from the home.
In a variety of residential applications and commercial surfaces, drains are used and also collect and divert large amounts of water in a short period.
In the Surface drainage system, a greater flow rate observes than in French drains and is less prone to clogging. These drains are easily unclogged without having to dig up the whole drain and are resistant to clogging
French drains are used to collect and channel groundwater to keep it from going under the home. To resist groundwater from entering under the foundation, french drainage is used.
They are also used to drain groundwater from gardens and around the foundations of buildings. Water is trapped in the ground away or towards an area and is moved by French drains.
As French drains are underground, and roots of trees and shrubs damage the perforated piping, French drains are susceptible to frequent clogging.
This system consists of a deep trench about 4 feet deep, a perforated 4-inch PVC pipe, and a permeable wrap to pipe and gravel. To remove moisture from over-saturated soil these drains are effective.
To remove large amounts of water in a short period, the French drain system is not good enough. They are often overwhelmed by flooding and high rainfall conditions.
French drains are effective for removing water from the highly sloped ground once it’s there, the design and purpose of surface drains keep excess water from building up in the first place.
Which Foundation Drainage System for Yard Water Problems, Flooding?
Sump pumps, Surface drainage systems, channel drains, and capillary systems are used. French drains etc also used. To end drainage issues French drains are installed.
Surface drains are commonly used to discharge large amounts of water from your yard fast. This system can route the water 20 inches to 100 inches away from the foundation or well more than 100’ away.
How Drainage Contractors Install French Drains?
Drainage problems can lead to water damage, pooling, or mold around the home but installing a French drain can avoid these problems.
French drains allow water to drain naturally from the yard, basically, a trench that is filled with a perforated pipe and gravel. One can purchase the pipes and equipment to create a French drain himself Depending on the size of the yard and the scale of a drainage issue,
Contractors follow the below-described process to install French drains-
Plan the Location
A flag in the grass marking a gas line figures out. Retention ponds, other bodies of water, and tap drainage should be looked at to choose an outlet for runoff water.
Then we should mark the direction and length of the trench, use striping spray paint, stakes, flags, etc. From a higher elevation to a lower elevation, the trench and pipe system should always drain.
Dig a Trench
Along the edge of a fenced-in yard, a French drain trench was dug. The place in the ard that needs drainage to the chosen outlet, dig a trench there
Before digging check for pipes and underground utility lines It should be 15-18 inches deep and 9-12 inches wide. For a total of one inch for 10 feet of pipe, the drain should slope down. Then dig the trench with shovels, depending on the size of the trench.
Line the Trench with Filter Fabric
Lay a water-permeable filter or weed barrier over the gravel bedding in the trench to keep the drain free of silt, dirt, and tree roots The filter fabric should be opened with at least 10 inches of excess fabric at the sides,
Pour the Gravel Bedding
Along the bottom of the trench, pour and compact about 3-4 inches of gravel. The drainage piping will act as bedding.
Hook Up the Pipe Connections
Where the water pools the most, install an inlet grate. To extend the inlet point to the water outlet point, secure as many fittings as necessary for the pipe system.
Pipe Drain in the Trench
French drain pipe partially laid in a trench. In the trench top, a layer of crushed stone lay the connected pipe structure, and be careful that the drainage holes in the pipe are instructed downwards. To Test the flow of the drain we should pour water into the inlet.
Cover with Gravel and Filter Fabric
The pipes should be covered with about 3 to 4 inches of gravel or crushed stone, but not should be enough to cross above ground level. For another layer of protection, wrap the excess filter fabric over it.
Backfill with Topsoil
The trench should be filled with topsoil and compact to cover the whole drain system. Cover the grate while filling the area around the inlet grate to prevent any soil from falling in after installing the French drain.
Ongoing Maintenance
Cover the surface with landscaping stone or reseed it Inlet grate and outlet point should be regularly inspected and cleaned. To keep the water flowing freely, flush the debris. Dig up part of it for inspection if the drain breaks or gets clogged.
Gravel-Free French Drainage System
Corrugated pipe surrounded by polystyrene is used in this system To dig the trench can be difficult work so get friends and family to help if possible.
Install a French drain, once the trench is complete. If the new drain will get runoff water under control, the basement should be protected and kept from becoming a swamp.
Where and when to install a French Drain?
Some of the most common drainage problems are:
Flooding in a Yard
A French drain can help If heavy rains have left the yard with an unwanted water feature or the spring thaw has saturated a property. In this wet region, a French drain should be placed which allows the drain collects unwanted water and converts it to a safer location.
Damage to an Outdoor Patio
Collecting water before the drain reaches the patio and diverting it away thus a French drain can work as a shield. Standing water that mosquitoes need to breed will be eliminated by this
Runoff from a Neighboring Property
Uphill neighbor’s properties water can drain towards and puddle next to a home or business. Installing an underground drainage system protects from costly water damage Whether the water is coming from a single location or along the length of the neighboring property,
Water near Driveways, Walkways, and Planter Areas
On driveways, water pools reduce their functionality and can potentially flood a garage. Concrete staining and slip hazards are caused by water pooling on the walkway
If there is water pooling in planter areas next to a home or business, can create muddy areas and cause damage to foundations.
Other key issues to consider include:
French drain depth:
For many water-diverting projects, about 8 inches to 2 feet deep should be sufficient.
French drain aggregate:
From pea gravel to river rock, the size of the gravel used can vary.
Also Read: Foundation Repair | What Are the Signs of Foundation Problems | What Causes Foundation Issues
About the Installation of Surface Drains
Surface drains are installed to move large volumes of water. Water-carrying pipes from the catch basins are made of PVC or corrugated plastic.
Surface drains are designed with catch basins of different sizes to solve hard water issues. In crawl spaces, sump pump installations are performed when surface water has created flooding problems used in yards
How French Drains, Surface Systems Stop Foundation Issues?
These systems divert water away from house foundations and terminate all kinds of foundation issues. Trapped water under the soil surface, causes yard flooding, soil erosion, and foundation issues, and this is solved by these systems. Rainwater is forced into storm sewers or catchments by French drains where it will not cause a drainage problem.
Other Yard Drainage Systems
Some other used drainage systems are-
The Cost-Effective Grassy Swale
- It is one of the least expensive drainage solutions.
- A swale is a ditch that is about three times wide and can direct stormwater to a runoff point.
- A swale has to be planted with grass, shrubs, and trees to prevent erosion.
Central Drainage With a Dry Well
- A dry well is a catch basin for excess water and is often used in conjunction with a French drain or a swale.
- After digging a hole in the ground, line it with filter fabric, fill it with gravel, and top it with a layer of topsoil and sod.
- Water flows into the well and slowly percolates into the ground and returns to the water table.
- A dry well is about 3 to 4 feet in diameter and 3 feet deep and is available in variable sizes.
- A small dry well next to each downspout is placed to control the runoff from just that downspout.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Drainage Systems
Surface drainage systems remove excess water from the land’s surface through channels or ditches. In some cases, the ground surface is shaped or graded to create sloping toward the channels. Different types of surface drainage systems are open drains, humps and hollows, levees, and grassed waterways.
Slope Drainage System
A slope drain is a pipe or lined channel which extends from the top to the bottom of a cut or fill slope. CONDITIONS FOR EFFECTIVE USE. These structures are designed to convey concentrated runoff to protect exposed slopes from upstream runoff. They can be used for sheet flow and concentrated flow.
Drain Pipe Slope
Pipes must slope slightly downhill to drain properly. The standard slope is anywhere from ¼ inch to 3 inches per foot depending on the use. An accurate calculation is essential for properly functioning plumbing.
Sloping Driveway Drainage Solutions
When dealing with a sloped driveway that collects water in low areas, the best answer is to install a trench drain that cuts directly across the driveway. This is a great solution for driveways that slope downward from street level or have a low spot.
Drain Slope
But do you know the proper slope? The ideal slope of any drain line is ¼ inch per foot of pipe. In other words, for every foot the pipe travels horizontally, it should be dropping ¼ inch vertically.
French Drain Slope
French drains need to have a slope of at least 1 percent, so the force of gravity will work for you. This means that the drain should slope down a total of at least one inch for every 10 feet of pipe.
Types of Drainage Systems
There are four main types of residential drainage systems. These include surface, subsurface, slope, downspout and gutter systems.
Types of Drains
Drains are classified by various systems: open or closed and passive or active. Passive drains rely on gravity, body movement, pressure differentials, or overflow to move fluid or gas; active drains use intermittent or continuous negative pressure to pull fluid or gas from a wound or body cavity.
Types of Storm Water Drainage Systems
- Slot Drains. Slot drains are a recent innovation in drainage technology.
- Open Storm Drains. Open storm drains are drains that usually run parallel to a nearby road or parallel to the edge of a property.
- Closed Storm Drain.
- French Drain.
- Permeable Pavement.
Types of Residential Drainage Systems
- Surface Drainage System. For surface drainage to be successful, ditches must be dug in a parallel pattern.
- Subsurface Drainage System.
- Downspout and Gutter System.
- Slope Drainage System.
Drain Tile Farm Field
The short answer. As their name suggests, drainage tiles are a network or system of underground pipes that siphon away excess water from the soil. Like agricultural plumbing. Tiling is particularly important in places across the Midwest such as Indiana that historically were covered in wetlands.
Wound Drain Types
Drains are classified by various systems: open or closed and passive or active. Passive drains rely on gravity, body movement, pressure differentials, or overflow to move fluid or gas; active drains use intermittent or continuous negative pressure to pull fluid or gas from a wound or body cavity.
How to Fix Standing Water in Yard?
How do you fix standing water? You can fix standing water in your lawn by building a dry well and a French drain, dethatching and aeration your soil, watering more wisely, extending downspouts, re-grading your yard, adding compost, and creating raised plant beds.
How Do You Fix Drainage Problems in Your Yard?
- Reduce Your Watering Schedule.
- Extend Your Downspout.
- Dig a Creek Bed or Swale.
- Construct a Rain Garden.
- Install a French Drain and/or Dry Well.
Surface Drain Vs French Drain
The primary difference between the two systems is that French drains are used for water that is gradually seeping below ground level while surface drains handle water that’s collecting above the ground. Their installation methods and materials also vary.
French Drain Vs Drain Tile
A French drain (also called a weeping tile, drain tile, perimeter drain or sub-surface drain) is a common basement waterproofing solution. It’s a trench containing a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from the foundation.
Best Drainage System for Yard
Landscaping plants can be a great drainage solution for areas with a small amount of excess water. Red-twig dogwoods, willows, and many native plants in each region are well-adapted to periodic bog conditions. French drain. A French drain is the most well-known type of outdoor drainage system.
French Drain Mistakes
- Not Calling Before You Dig.
- Using the Wrong Type of Drain Rock.
- Not Lining the Trench with Drainage Fabric.
- Selecting the Wrong type of Landscape Fabric (use non-woven)
- Placing Excavated Soil Back into the Trench.
- Lack of Positive Slope for the Drain.
Why Is It Called a French Drain?
What Is a French Drain? While you might think that the French drain originated in France, the name derives from its inventor, Henry Flagg French, a farmer from New England born in 1813. Fascinated by agriculture, in 1859 French wrote a book, “Farm Drainage,” highlighting the drainage systems in use at the time.
French Drains Around House
French drains serve to collect and remove groundwater that would otherwise cause a problem. They’re often used along driveways, in damp areas of a lawn, and around house foundations to help keep the basement or crawlspace dry.
French Drain Cost
Location in Home and Accessibility. Interior French drains are more expensive to install than exterior drains because they require more labor to excavate through a concrete floor. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5,000 and $13,500 to have a French drain installed in the home.
Best Residential Drainage Systems in the Usa
There are several reputable residential drainage systems available in the USA. Here are a few options that are commonly considered among the best:
- French Drain: A French drain is a popular choice for residential properties. It consists of a trench filled with gravel or rock and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from the property. French drains are effective at managing excess water and preventing water damage to basements and foundations.
- Channel Drain: Channel drains, also known as trench drains, are linear drainage systems that are often installed in driveways, patios, or other paved areas. They have a narrow profile and are designed to quickly collect and redirect surface water. Channel drains are available in various materials, such as plastic, metal, or concrete.
- Stormwater Detention Systems: Stormwater detention systems are designed to manage large volumes of rainwater runoff. These systems typically include underground storage tanks or chambers that collect and store excess water during heavy rainfall, gradually releasing it into the municipal stormwater system or allowing it to infiltrate into the ground.
- Sump Pump Systems: Sump pump systems are commonly used in residential basements or areas prone to flooding. They consist of a sump pit, a pump, and a network of pipes. When water accumulates in the sump pit, the pump automatically activates and pumps the water away from the building, keeping the area dry and preventing water damage.
- Gutter and Downspout Systems: While not a standalone drainage system, properly functioning gutters and downspouts are crucial for effective residential drainage. They collect rainwater from the roof and direct it away from the house, preventing water from pooling around the foundation. Well-designed gutter systems can help protect against water damage and foundation issues.
Affordable Solutions for Drainage System Installation in the Usa
When it comes to affordable solutions for drainage system installation in the USA, there are a few options to consider:
- DIY Solutions: If you have some basic knowledge and skills in construction, you can consider installing a simple drainage system yourself. This can save you money on labor costs. For example, you can install a basic French drain using readily available materials like gravel, perforated pipes, and landscape fabric. However, keep in mind that it’s important to research and follow proper installation guidelines to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of the system.
- Local Drainage Contractors: Contacting local drainage contractors and requesting multiple quotes can help you find affordable options. Explain your specific needs and budget to the contractors, and they can provide you with cost-effective solutions tailored to your property. It’s recommended to obtain several quotes to compare prices and choose the best option that fits your budget.
- Use Cost-Effective Materials: Opting for cost-effective materials can also help reduce the overall expense of your drainage system. For instance, instead of expensive metal channel drains, you can consider plastic or concrete alternatives that are more budget-friendly. Additionally, using local or readily available materials can often be more cost-effective compared to importing specialized products.
- Prioritize Problem Areas: If you have limited funds, focus on installing drainage systems in the areas of your property that are most prone to water issues. Prioritizing problem areas can help you address immediate concerns while working within your budget. By strategically managing water flow in critical areas, you can mitigate potential damage and gradually expand the drainage system in the future.
- Optimize Existing Systems: Sometimes optimizing and improving the efficiency of your existing drainage system can be a cost-effective solution. This could involve cleaning out clogged gutters, extending downspouts away from the foundation, or regrading the landscape to ensure proper water flow.
Commercial Drainage System Contractors in the Usa
There are numerous commercial drainage system contractors in the USA. Here are a few reputable companies that specialize in commercial drainage system installation:
- ACF Environmental: ACF Environmental is a leading provider of stormwater management and drainage solutions. They offer a wide range of commercial drainage products, including geosynthetics, stormwater chambers, erosion control systems, and sediment control devices. With multiple locations across the United States, ACF Environmental provides comprehensive services and expertise in commercial drainage systems.
- T. Luckey Sons, Inc.: T. Luckey Sons is a full-service site development and utility contractor that offers commercial drainage system installation. They specialize in underground utility work, including storm drainage systems, sanitary sewer installation, and waterline construction. With over 90 years of experience, T. Luckey Sons has completed numerous commercial projects throughout the Midwest.
- SiteOne Landscape Supply: SiteOne Landscape Supply is a national supplier of landscaping and irrigation products, including commercial drainage systems. They offer a wide range of drainage products, such as catch basins, channel drains, drain pipes, and fittings. With multiple locations across the country, SiteOne Landscape Supply provides access to quality drainage products for commercial projects.
- Ferguson Waterworks: Ferguson Waterworks is a leading distributor of waterworks supplies, including commercial drainage systems. They offer a comprehensive selection of drainage products, including pipes, fittings, catch basins, grates, and erosion control materials. With numerous locations nationwide, Ferguson Waterworks provides convenient access to commercial drainage system components.
- Contech Engineered Solutions: Contech Engineered Solutions specializes in providing innovative solutions for stormwater management and drainage systems. They offer a wide range of products for commercial applications, including stormwater chambers, precast concrete culverts, stormwater filters, and detention/retention systems. Contech Engineered Solutions has a nationwide presence and can assist with commercial drainage projects across the country.
Effective Yard Drainage Systems in the Usa
When it comes to effective yard drainage systems in the USA, several options are commonly used to manage excess water and prevent water damage. Here are a few effective yard drainage systems:
- French Drains: French drains are one of the most popular and effective yard drainage systems. They consist of a trench filled with gravel or rock and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from the yard. French drains are particularly useful for addressing soggy areas, standing water, or water pooling near the foundation.
- Dry Wells: Dry wells are underground structures designed to collect and slowly disperse excess water. They can be used to manage water from downspouts, sump pumps, or surface runoff. Dry wells allow water to gradually infiltrate into the soil, preventing it from accumulating in the yard.
- Catch Basins and Channel Drains: Catch basins, combined with channel drains, are effective for managing surface water in yards and driveways. Catch basins are underground structures that collect water, while channel drains are linear drains that capture water from the surface and direct it to the catch basin. This system helps prevent water pooling and erosion.
- Rain Gardens: Rain gardens are designed to capture and absorb rainwater runoff, providing an attractive and environmentally friendly solution. They involve creating a depressed area in the yard planted with native vegetation that helps soak up water. Rain gardens not only manage excess water but also provide habitat for wildlife and reduce pollution.
- Slope and Grading: Proper yard slope and grading are essential for effective drainage. The yard should be sloped away from the house or any structures to prevent water from flowing toward them. Grading the yard ensures water is directed towards designated drainage areas or away from vulnerable areas.
- Swales: Swales are shallow, vegetated channels that help redirect and manage water flow. They can be designed to collect and distribute water or guide it to other drainage systems. Swales are particularly useful for managing water runoff in large areas and preventing erosion.
Cost of Installing a French Drain System in the Usa
Therefore, standing surface water and drainage problems must be addressed quickly to avoid structural damage to your house. Unfortunately, foundation french drain installation costs around $4,000 to $13,000, with $6,200 being the average.
What Are the Four Types of Drainage?
- Surface Drainage System.
- Subsurface Drainage System.
- Slope Drainage System.
- Downspout and Gutter Systems.
- Contact All Aspects Waterproofing For Your Drainage Needs!
French Drain Vs Footing Drain
French drains are made of a perforated pipe laid beside the foundation wall. The slope of the pipe extends away from the structure. The pipe is surrounded by a porous material, like gravel, then backfilled with soil. Footing drains surround the entire perimeter of the foundation wall at the same level as its footing.
Channel Drain Vs French Drain
If trench drains channel water that has pooled on the surface of your yard away from your house, French drains manage ground water or water that doesn’t necessarily pool on the surface, but rather seeps through the ground immediately.
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