Outdoor drains help to manage water runoff and prevent water damage to buildings, foundations, and landscapes. There are different types of outdoor drains used to manage and redirect excess water.
Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are a reputable plumbing service with extensive experience in drain installation, drain cleaning, clogged drain line repair, and more. As industry experts, we are conversant with the different types of outdoor drains.
Let’s look at the different types of outdoor drains and their functions.
Yard drains, also known as catch basins, are built directly into the ground for the purpose of collecting excess surface water in a basin and redirecting it into a more extensive drainage system below the ground. These drains act much like shower drains, leading rainwater or runoff away from your home. They are equipped with large metal grates that sit on top of the drains to prevent large debris from passing through.
French drains are composed of perforated piping wrapped in a fabric filter and topped with a layer of fabric. These drains are commonly installed in low-lying yards to help manage surface water. The surface water flows through the gravel and filters into the pipe, and then it’s directed away from the area. French drains are a perfect addition in areas where the ground often gets saturated.
Channel drains are similar to French drains in terms of function, channeling surface water into a drainage system below the ground. The difference is that channel drains are more suitable for impervious surfaces, such as garage floors and concrete driveways and walkways. Essentially, channel drains are long and narrow drains installed directly into the pavement or concrete to prevent water from pooling on impervious surfaces.
Dry wells are underground drainage systems consisting of a pit or trench filled with gravel. They are used to collect and slowly disperse excess water into the ground through porous siding. Dry wells can be used to catch rainwater from roof downspouts and gutters.
A swale drain, or drainage swale, is a shallow, broad, and vegetated channel designed to manage and slow down stormwater runoff. This type of drain is installed on a gently sloped incline, and it’s often lined with plants and vegetation to help filter and absorb water before it reaches other drainage systems. Swales are particularly effective for channeling run-off from car parks, yards, roads, roofs, or athletic fields. They are often used in combination with other drains to create a comprehensive drainage system.
Gutter drains are an integral part of a home's rain gutter system. They consist of downspouts that carry rainwater collected from the roof gutters and direct it away from the building's foundation, preventing water damage and erosion.
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