In Texas, we’re known for extreme weather that can change from one day to the next. While much of the year is dusty and dry, we can have periods of torrential rain, like we did this spring! It’s important to have a proper drainage system if your property doesn’t naturally drain water away to avoid damage to your foundation or even leaks into your home or the (rare) basement. Read on to learn about the different types of drainage systems and how they can help save you from costly repairs down the road.
French Drains
These types of drains, also referred to as “trench drains”, are definitely one of the most widely known and popular drain systems. The goal is to create a channel for water to empty into an area away from the house, with a goal of preventing water on the ground and on the surface from creating more damage to your home’s foundation – and we all know how finicky a Texan foundation can already be!
Surface Drains (Ditch)
This drainage system speak directly to its name as it consists of shallow ditches that are most suitable for permeable soils, as well as clay subsoils. The purpose of a surface drain is to remove the excess water from the surface of the land and discharge it into a larger and much deeper collector drain. In order to facilitate this excess flow of water toward the larger drains, the field must be given an artificial slope by the means of land grading.
Basement Drains
When soil gets saturated, excess water will collect and put pressure onto your foundation wall or floor, potentially creating cracks and then entering the property if left untreated.
Basement drain systems keep your basement and foundation safe of water damage by pumping excess water away from the area via a sump pump. These systems work by typically installing perforated pipes around the base of your property that will collect excess moisture into a sump pit. After the moisture levels reach a certain point, the pump will activate and begin directing the water away from the foundation. There are exterior and interior types of basement drain systems, but they’re both very similar in installation and function. The only difference is the exterior systems are installed around the perimeter of your foundation while interior systems are installed around the basement floor.
Gutter Systems
Gutter systems are a series of metal pipes that sit just on the edge of your roof and catch water and then directs to water to a downspout. Your downspout can point to a surface drain or empty directly into a rain barrel! Even though water is good for your lawn, a large downpour can cause the water to erode the dirt around your home leaving pools of water that can damage your foundation.
It’s important to regularly clean your gutters of debris to avoid clogs. Always install high-quality gutters, as cheap materials will wear out. Many modern gutters come with debris guards!
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways to protect your property from water damage, including drainage systems, which direct water away from your foundation. Any good contractor, like Classic Construction, will come do a free estimate and tell you specifically what type of drainage system is best for your home or business. Contact us or give us a call to schedule your appointment!