How to Install Drainage

Proper drainage is important for minimizing the potential for property damage, as well as maintaining the vitality of plant life.
 
A good drainage system will minimize soil compaction, control erosion, and prevent flooding. Proper drainage around foundations, patios, walls and other man made features will prevent major structural damage. Directing water from roof gutters and down spouts away from the building foundation into an underground drainage system is essential!
 

Construction

• If water collects in a specific area, use a catch basin to collect water then incorporate it into the drainage system with additional tubing.
• Trench (either by hand with a shovel, or rent a mini-excavator) at least 6”wide with a minimum of 1/8” of fall per foot of length.
• The lowest part of the system must be at the outlet.
• Lay fabric in the trench, place tubing with perforations down, back fill with gravel (preference is 1”) to within 2” – 3” of surface.
• Flip the edges of the fabric over the gravel, encasing both the tubing and the gravel within the fabric, thus maintaining the integrity of the entire drainage system.
• Place 2”-3” of top soil over the fabric (fabric provides a separation layer between gravel and soil)
• Grass seed & straw.

 

Tips

Call OUPS Ohio Utilities Protection Service) at 1-800-362-2764, before digging.

Check local regulations to be sure your drainage system is in compliance.

Use perforated pipe for collecting water.

Use solid pipe for discharging water.