What is a residential drainage system?
Construction of a drainage system is a way of removing excess or wastewater from an area. Residential drainage systems include piping that removes rainwater, sewage, and other liquid waste. The idea is that drainage systems dispose of water waste quickly. Drainage systems also prevent sewer gases from being released into residential areas.
What are the different types of drainage system?
There are several different types of a residential drainage system, including:
- Subsurface Drainage: You might also hear these referred to as ‘French drains.’ These are positioned underneath the soil to remove excess water. French drains use underground pipes, deep ditches, and a collector drain.
- Surface Drainage: These systems use parallel ditches. The ditches serve as canals, taking water to the more massive drain. A surface drainage system helps to prevent both flooding and water pooling.
- Slope Drainage: The water flows down a slope, and the pipes are positioned into an incline. Due to the pitch, the water flows down and away.
- Gutter or Downspout: Downspouts collect the water from the channels. These pipes then move the water down to the ground.
Which drainage system is the most sustainable?
SUDS stands for ‘Sustainable Urban Drainage System.’ As the name suggests, SUDS is the most sustainable system. A SUDS is to store runoff, collect rainwater, allow infiltration, and remove pollutants.
Infiltration is limited in residential areas, and SUDs can help to solve this problem. SUDs re-use surface water and improve water quality. At Swick and Son we prioritize sustainable options. We are happy to discuss your sustainable drainage needs.
How is a residential drainage system constructed?
Firstly, your contractor will dig a deep trench. Next, the contractor will complete the installation of the dry well. The pipes are positioned in straight lines and should have a steady gradient. Your contractor will also prep the bedding. They will create a recess if necessary (for the sockets). The pipes lie on a bed made from granular material. Your lines will either be settled as part of the bedding or positioned with the bedding underneath. The contractor may put a crushed rock on the floor of the trench. Doing so will help to improve water absorption. Choosing a position that is lower than your property will help to drain the water away.
Which types of pipes made for constructing a drainage system?
Drainage pipes made out of either plastic or clayware are the most common. Either material provides excellent hydraulic properties. Clayware is more robust, while plastic may become deformed when buried underground. Clay pipes can be laid straight into a trench. Plastic pipes need to be supported by a pea-shingle or a similar material. Plastic pipes can be slightly more comfortable to work with because they are lightweight. Another advantage of clay pipes is that these are resistant to chemicals. Due to this, they are the perfect option for sanitary drainage. Lines can either be ‘socketed’ or ‘plain-ended.’ Sometimes drainage pipes are made from different materials, including cast iron, ductile, concrete, or glass fiber. Cast iron pipes are a popular choice, being both durable and fire-resistant.
What is the necessary pipe laying process for a drainage system?
The majority of drainage systems use ‘plain-ended’ pipes. To lay these pipes, your contractor will lubricate the ends of the lines. The contractor will then slide the pipe fitting and the coupling together. This process continues until the entire network of pipes fit together to create the drainage network for the property. Your contractor may use a timber cushion and a crowbar to secure the coupling to the line.
To cut the pipes, they will likely use a pipe-cutting tool, or a cut-off saw. A pipe cutting tool made of steel-discs and a lever handle is best. When the pipe cutting device is installed around the pipe barrel, and then pressure is applied to the device the pipe will cut.
Can I construct a drainage system myself?
It is possible to build a drainage system. Regardless, it can be a complicated process without the right training. It’s important not to leave trenches open for longer than required. If you are working in a ditch, it’s not advisable to do alone. You should also ensure that you use the correct safety equipment. At Swick and Son we offer a range of drainage system services, including both trenching and pipework. We’ve plenty of experience working with both commercial and residential customers. If you’d like more information about our drainage system services, reach out to us today.
