A good home is not defined by just the elements that meet the eye but also by the hidden systems that offer it the functionality needed to make it livable. One such system is the home drainage system. It is an important element that you need to keep in mind right from the pre-construction phase. It affects the health and safety of the occupants of the house – especially during heavy rains.
What is a drainage system?
A drainage system is a structure or network of structures designed to remove water from an area. Drainage systems are usually made up of pipes, tunnels, trenches, and chambers. Sometimes, they have retention ponds at their mouth to slow water down as it flows out. These structures help prevent too much stormwater from being released at once (something that can cause flooding in downstream areas) and getting rid of polluted water (so it doesn’t contaminate other water sources). And if everything is working correctly, excess water will drain into your local sewer or wastewater treatment facility, where it can be treated and safely released back into the waterways. This process is called drainage. It’s what keeps areas dry and safe for people to live and work.
These drainage systems need to be in accordance with the local building codes and, ideally, should be done by a licensed professional. You can leave the guessing work out of the process to Design Everest that offers drainage plans that comply with the California Building Codes. Their team can also help with any legal approvals or permits that you may need for installing a good drainage system for your home.
What are the different kinds of drainage systems?
Drainage systems are installed underground to collect water from roofs, patios, or other hard surfaces around houses. The main purpose of these systems is to prevent flooding on your property and keep your yard dry by collecting water and channeling it away from your foundation. There are different types of residential drainage systems in the US based on where they are located on your property and other factors like slope of the land surrounding your property, other surrounding properties and local amenities (roads, parks, etc.), nearby water bodies. Each one has its own unique characteristics that you should know before deciding which one is right for you. There are four main types of drainage systems:
French Drains
A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or sand, which directs water away from the building’s foundation. It is a type of sub-surface drainage system and involves replacing the topsoil to create an easier path for water to flow. The trench, or trench line, is often lined with plastic. Occasionally a perforated or slotted pipe is also inserted in the French drains.
Surface Drains
The surface drain collects water flowing through your property and down to a storm drain or sewer. Surface drains are normally located near driveways, lawns, driveways, and sidewalks to help reduce flooding and create safe walkways. They are installed in areas that can potentially collect large amounts of water.
Trench Drains
A trench drain is a channel that is dug into your lawn and filled with gravel to help drain the excess water away from your home. Unlike the French drain, this type of drainage system is located on the surface of the land and is not covered by soil. A trench drain is covered with a heavy grate and used to re-divert the water.
Sump Pump
A sump pump drainage system is an engineered system designed to move water out of your basement. They are typically installed near areas from where water can enter your home. The purpose of these pumps is to remove excess water from your basement quickly before it can cause extensive damage.
Why does your home need a good drainage system?
A well-designed drainage system is essential to remove any excess water from the house and helps in the prevention of water-related damage to the home. It is also important to ensure that clogged-up water does not affect the work being done during the construction phase.
Here is why your home needs a good drainage system:
Maintain the Structural Integrity of the House
In addition to creating health hazards, contaminated water can cause great damage around the house. It can damage walls, floors, and ceilings. It can also cause cracks and structural damages to the foundation.
Important for Hygiene and Health
Wastewater and sewage can contaminate our water supply. It can also create a breeding ground for diseases. A good drainage system also helps keep you comfortable and healthy by preventing condensation, which prevents the growth of mold and mildew. It also deters the accumulation of moisture, which can promote the development of dust mites and mildew.
Helps in Conserving Energy
A proper drainage system also helps conserve energy. It prevents water from accumulating on walls, floors, and ceilings. This helps prevent the formation of ice dams, which can cause extensive damage to your roof. These ice dams lead to loss of heat, resulting in high energy bills.
Protect Your Landscaping Work
Water can flood out onto the site during the construction of your home and can cause damage to the landscaping. A good drainage system can prevent this, saving you the cost of re-doing the landscaping work.
Most drainage systems in California need to be installed and maintained by a licensed contractor. Design Everest has completed over 6000 projects to date and continues to serve clients in California with a diverse range of construction-related services. If you are looking to work with a reliable team of licensed contractors to install a drainage system for your home, get in touch with us for a consultation and a free quote.
