Home
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Drainage Solutions?

Klaus Strasser
Klaus Strasser

Poor drainage can damage homes, properties, or land with all the rage of a backyard Poseidon. These draining problems are usually the result of the buildup of water that is unable to be efficiently drained or diverted away. Looking for drainage solutions typically means seeking the best way to remove this unwanted water or sub-surface water from an area. To fix drainage problems, some of the options you may want to consider are a do-it-yourself approach or contacting a drainage expert.

There are many types of drains that may be installed on a property to help remove water. Researching the type of drainage problem you have and matching it with the most appropriate solution generally is recommended. For example, draining solutions for a basement or a crawlspace may require completely different approaches.

A home's downspout diverts water away from the gutter system.
A home's downspout diverts water away from the gutter system.

For the common yard property, the layman can install many types of drains. Some of these drains are recommended by professionals for specific drainage problems. For example, a trench drain is a type of drain that is typically used on properties where the buildup of water may lead to a swampy yard phenomenon or the damaging of a basement.

Trench drains can have different designs and also be installed in many different ways. The general objective is to intercept water and, functioning like a roof trough, move this collected water away in another direction. When looking at trench designs for drainage solutions, it is usually important for you to understand the movement of water on your property and figure out the best way to redistribute it.

There are many types of drains that may be installed on a property to help remove water.
There are many types of drains that may be installed on a property to help remove water.

A French drain is a type of trench or pit that is made in the ground. Water is collected by the French drain and freely flows through it back onto the surface of land away from the building structure. The design of the French drain is also crucial to the process, because this will determine its success in diverting water.

Professional drainage solutions may also be a viable option. These companies typically employ professional technicians with experience in assessing the drainage problem and finding the best drainage solutions. When considering these services, you may want to think about factors such as price, quality of service, and any type of drainage solution specialties they may advertise. Some drainage services have their own Internet sites. This can be a good way to get information about services offered, prices, and the history of the firm.

Discussion Comments

anon98678

I believe you can do either or both. The sock or fabric around the pipe stops sediment and stuff entering drain, and covering rocks on top will stop soil or clay blocking holes within the rocks themselves, allowing for better drainage. Good luck.

anon80928

i am busy with a farm drainage project. i need to know if i can wrap the 'membrane' - cloth around my drainage pipe, or must i wrap it around the pie with some 19mm tone on top of the pipe? some of the farmers wrap the pipe first with some stone on top and some of the guys wrap the pipe together with the stones? addo - port elizabeth

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A home's downspout diverts water away from the gutter system.
      By: Amy Walters
      A home's downspout diverts water away from the gutter system.
    • There are many types of drains that may be installed on a property to help remove water.
      By: Aaron Kohr
      There are many types of drains that may be installed on a property to help remove water.
    • A trench used for drainage may be dug in the ground to hold excess water.
      By: Robert Harrak
      A trench used for drainage may be dug in the ground to hold excess water.
    • Drainage helps prevent standing water, which mosquitoes can use as a breeding ground.
      By: demarfa
      Drainage helps prevent standing water, which mosquitoes can use as a breeding ground.