Drainage is a preventative measure you should never overlook, regardless of whether your property is for residential or commercial purposes. This is because, as indispensable as water is, it can cause serious damage to buildings if not channeled properly. When water builds up in the soil beneath your foundation, it can cause damage to the foundation and cost thousands of dollars to repair.
There are a few options to choose from when it comes to drainage, but French drains are the most common. However, this does not make them your best option; you have to choose the option that best suits your property.
This article will analyze the different features of French drains alongside other drain types to help you make an informed decision.
What Are The Top Drain Types?
Houston Heights irrigation and drainage companies offer several drain types. However, these three are the most common and preferred:
● French Drains
French drains include perforated pipes placed in trenches surrounded by crushed rock and gravel. Water is directed to the pipes during heavy rains and channeled to the storm drains. This mechanism relies on gravity to direct the water down towards the pipe. When there are light rains, water is absorbed by the surrounding gravel into the ground.
● Permeable Pavers
Permeable pavers are mainly a method of surface drainage. The design lets rainwater pass through the joints of stones to a layer of aggregate or stone, then into the ground table soil beneath. This design prevents stormwater run-off and water pooling after rain.
● Catch Basins
Catch basins include solid pipes that lead to basins from basins. The water in these basins is usually moved to a canal or a storm drain with pumps. This option is great for landscapes that do not support French drains. They are also effective in solving the problem of flooding on solid surfaces.
When Should You Use French Drains?
If you need one or more of the following, you should absolutely use French drains. If, on the other hand, you have contrary needs, you should consider catch basins or other drainage systems.
- French drains are mainly used to collect water from around the foundation of a building and to drain groundwater from gardens. Based on the design of French drains, they are very effective in moving water trapped in the ground. French drains are better than other drainage solutions for flooding-prone soil.
- For water to drain through French drains into the drain basin, the slope of the soil has to be considerable.
- French drains are more effective in areas where there are low rainfall conditions. This is because French drains are not typically made for draining very large amounts of water within a short period.
- You need an experienced Houston irrigation company to ensure the proper installation of French drains. So if you’re the DIY type, be cautious that installing French drains requires specialized skills.
In Conclusion
Whether you’ve decided on the drainage solution you need or are still unsure, our drainage experts are here to help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us and remove excess water from your property properly!
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