24/7 Emergency Service in Ohio Valley

304-924-2200

Schedule Online

Blog

What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Drains?

What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Drains?

After heavy rainfall or snowmelt, it is common to find standing water on your property which can compromise the structural integrity of your home's foundation. A practical solution to mitigating water-related damage is installing an outdoor drain to avoid basement leaks and damage to surrounding structures. With all the different outdoor gutters, it can be difficult for home and property owners to choose the ideal solution for their specific needs. Consulting a professional plumber can help narrow down the search and avoid future drain repair and replacement costs.

If stormwater lacks a place to drain, then structural damage is the least of your concerns since you risk flooding and erosion of your lawn, sidewalk, or garden. Outdoor drains can help you redirect the water, saving you from many expenses in the future. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have an experienced team of experts who can assess your yard before recommending a suitable type of outdoor drain. Here are some of the different outdoor drains used to mitigate water damage.

French Drains

French drains are usually recommended for homes with flat yards prone to flooding. This type of outdoor drain is made of perforated pipes installed by a plumber around the foundation in a trench filled with gravel. This technique helps drain water down and away from the foundation, preventing it from damaging your home or sprouting leaks. Our experts can ensure that everything is installed correctly and maintained for an efficient and effective outdoor drainage system.

Dry Well

We usually recommend dry well outdoor drainage for rainwater from downspouts and gutters, reducing waterlogged soil and greywater catchment in low areas of your yard. Unlike a French drain, a dry well relies on gravity to direct water to the weakest parts of your lawn instead of letting it collect at one point. Once the water contains in the well, it dissipates slowly into the water table. If these are issues you usually struggle with when it rains, it might be time you consulted a skillful plumber to help with installation.

Catch Basin

These outdoor drains function similarly to storm drains on parking lots or the street. They collect and direct stormwater to a sump pump or reservoir to alleviate all the water away from your home. It comprises a large underground tank fitted with a metallic grate to keep debris out of the tank. Catch basins are installed at the lowest point of your home, and if your property is large, you might need more than one. It is not recommended for places with heavy clay soil.

Trench Drain

Trench drains are almost similar to French drains since they focus on draining water away from your home's foundation. A trench drain is ideal if the landscape around your property slopes towards your home rather than out. It comprises a solid precast material and can be cast depending on your needs. Contact us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for more information regarding outdoor drains and schedule an appointment with our experts.