Whether you are buying a new property or maintaining an older one you must manage outdoor drainage systems. As the homeowner you need to ensure drains and gutters are kept clear, that anything flushed into the system is acceptable and biodegradable. If you manage your outdoor drainage systems well you will help to manage your property value.

Outdoor drainage systems to improve your property

Standing water on your property can cause problems over time. At first, it may seem like a simple nuisance, but if left untreated, standing water can damage your home and property. You aren’t the only one to deal with standing water on your property, though, which means there are already solutions to your problem.

Outdoor drainage systems are the best way to fix a water problem. There are a handful of different types available on the market and all are designed to suit different needs. You may have water in your driveway and need a driveway drain. You may have water in your yard and need a catch basin drain.

Evaluate your property’s drainage

You take a step downstairs and find yourself staring at unwanted water in your basement. You are aware that anytime there’s water in your basement you should be concerned. You must be

wondering how does the water get into your basement and how to fix it ? You need to call a basement waterproofing company right away.

When it comes to improving your property, looking into outdoor drainage systems is a great place to start. Here are just a few of the more popular drainage systems and how your property can benefit.

Catch basin

A catch basin is used in low areas of your yard or directly under your gutters. Catches basins have a grid to prevent debris from building up in the drainage pipe and allow excess water to escape through an underground pipe. In many cases, catch basins will direct the excess water to a sewage or water system nearby.

Driveway drain

Driveway drains are pretty much exactly what they sound like. And they make a vital part of your outdoor drainage system. They help divert excess water off of your driveway so that it doesn’t deteriorate. Typically, driveway drains are installed as long, narrow channels that catch and redirect water so that it doesn’t build up in your driveway.

Some driveway trench drains come sloped so that water is able to flow away easily and debris doesn’t build up inside the drain. They are built strong enough so that you can drive over them without worrying about them breaking or wearing down too quickly. 

Pop-up emitter

Pop-up emitters are typically connected to your gutters and aim to divert water further away from the foundation of your home. The great thing about pop-up emitters is that they’re small and won’t catch debris. When there is no running water, the pop-up lid will stay closed.

Pop-up emitters can be placed wherever you want them to. You can arrange them so that excess water gets directed to parts of your yard that struggle to get enough water. You can also arrange them so that all excess water is directed to a catch basin or to the curb of your home.

Downspouts and gutters

Most homes have downspouts and gutters these days, but if yours doesn’t, it’s certainly time to change that. Gutters catch roof water and downspouts ensure the water doesn’t go wherever it wants. They help protect the foundation of your home from being exposed to too much water.

Downspouts and gutters can be used in combination with a downspout diverter. This diverter directs roof water further away from your home and can be buried to avoid being seen. When there is heavy rain and your downspout puts out a lot of water, the diverter will make sure that it doesn’t ruin your garden or flood where you don’t want it.

The four types of drainage systems

Each home is different and may need different drainage system types. Depending on your situation, you may decide to choose more than one drainage system. In many cases, this is the best choice as your home is more prepared for heavy rains and is much less likely to have water problems.

#1. Surface Drainage Systems

This drainage system is most commonly used on flat properties that struggle with a lack of water runoff. For surface drainage systems, you’ll likely dig trenches to catch and redirect water away from problem areas. Common surface drainage systems include driveway drains and pop-up emitters.

#2. Subsurface Drainage Systems

The next level of drainage system is a subsurface drainage system. Subsurface drainage systems are when your soil has trouble absorbing too much water and can’t shed it. Trapped water can cause plants and trees to rot from the roots up, but subsurface drainage systems can be put in place to avoid this.

Common subsurface drainage systems include pipes and a sump pump. You’ll typically need to do more work and this type of drainage system will involve more digging, but it ensures that your soil stays healthy and your plants don’t rot.

#3. Slope Drainage Systems

Similar to subsurface drainage systems, slope drainage systems tend to use pipes to divert water. However, not all slope drainage systems need to be buried underground as with subsurface systems. Instead, the pipes are laid on an incline to direct water away from your home.

Slope drainage systems are used by homeowners that have a natural incline on their property. These systems take advantage of the existing incline to redirect water and prevent build-up in places you don’t want it. 

French drains are a common slope drainage system and are easy enough to do on your own. If you feel like your home may need a slope drainage solution but would like to take care of the problem on your own, you can easily learn to dig a French drain for your home.

#4. Downspouts and Gutters

The final type of drainage system is a downspout and gutter system. With this, you’re able to redirect and control roof water so that it doesn’t collect around the foundation of your home or harm your garden.

If you already have a downspout and gutter system but feel like it needs improving, you can always look into ways to improve your current system and make it more efficient. 

Manage your outdoor drainage systems to avoiding water build-up

Water build-up in your yard or driveway can be expensive to repair. Fortunately, there are drainage systems that exist to protect your property from damage and are easy to install. Simple driveway drains can do a lot to keep your driveway in good shape and are durable enough to last for years. Many models can even be installed on your own.

Installing an outdoor water drainage system is necessary for the health of your property. While you may not need all four types of drainage systems, evaluating your property and implementing the drainage systems you need can save you stress, money, and future hassle.

FURTHER READING ON PROPERTY AND HOME MAINTENANCE

Common urban drainage issues

Plumbing maintenance – What not to flush down the drains

Home construction – Guide to the right commode

Home maintenance – Signs of water damage to watch out for