Almost every homeowner at one time or another has experienced the worry of excessive water on their property – or worse, their basement. Some drainage problems are solved more easily than others, but with the proper help from a professional, all can be solved.

Most drainage issues are solved with the use of underground drainage pipe and area drains diverting or capturing water, then redirecting and releasing it to a suitable outlet. The use of a dry creek bed is a creative alternative for drainage problems.

Surface Drainage Systems

Surface drainage systems aim to collect excess surface water from hardscapes, planter beds, window wells, and specific turf areas where water tends to collect. Water enters a surface drainage system through catch basins, which have a sump area that collects debris to prevent clogging of the piping.

Catch basins and the drainage grates that go on top of them are available in a variety of sizes and styles depending upon the application.

Round drainage grates are used in turf area.

Square drainage grates are used for hardscape areas; walkways, driveways, parking lots, around swimming pools, etc.

Atrium drainage grates have a raised “domelike” design to prevent debris from building on top of the grate openings. These are used in window wells, planter areas, and other applications where bark mulch, stone or landscape debris tend to cover drain openings.

The size of the catch basin should be sized to the anticipated volume of water to be collected. In addition the pipe carrying the water from the catch basin should be properly sized to carry water from all catch basins to which it is connected. Always size a little larger than necessary for safety. The additional material cost is minimal and mistakes can be costly. If the drain will be exposed to weight or traffic from above, you may need to consider a concrete catch basin and/or a metal drainage grate. The drainage line connecting the catch basins should be of a solid (non-perforated) design. Both solid PVC and corrugated plastic piping are acceptable.

Another form of the drainage system is the channel drain. Channel drains are frequently used in paved areas to collect water. They are essentially an extended trough or catch basin covered by a long grate. Typical channel drains can be 10’ long and 4” wide. Channel drains are also connected together with solid piping.

Sub-Surface Drainage

The most frequently used form of sub-surface drainage is the French Drain or underground collection drain. This drain collects underground Water from saturated soils and carries it to a desired destination. Sub-surface drains help carry water away from low spots and can protect drainage sensitive plant material.

Downspout Drainage

Roof water should not be dumped into the backfill area.  This water should be directed at least ten feet away from your homes foundation. 

Drain lines can be used to carry roof water from down spouts away from buildings and planting beds. Downspout drain lines can be especially helpful if the natural grade around a building does not cause water to move away from the foundation. Downspouts can be connected to a solid PVC or corrugated plastic drain pipes to carry roof water away from the building.

Poor water drainage can lead to the following: Sod deterioration, mold, and plant damage, cracking foundations, driveways and sidewalks, rotting of wood in the home, respiratory ailments and other health problems.

Channel Drains

When drainage at doors is poor and the area can’t readily be regarded to provide surface drainage, channel drains can be used to improve drainage.

If you have questions about the usage and application of drainage equipment, we encourage you to contact Signature Landscapes,