Types of Drains and Their Functions

There are many different types of drains, and each one has a specific function. It can be for protection against floods or a proper sewage system. Floods can happen in many different parts of the house such as your basement floor and basement walls. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common types of drains and their functions. We will also provide some tips on how to maintain your drains so that they stay in good condition!

 

What are Drains?

A drain is a pipe that carries wastewater away from your home. Wastewater can come from many sources, including showers, sinks, toilets, and washing machines. Drains are an important part of your home’s plumbing system because they keep sewage and other waste products from entering your home. The purpose of having drains is to remove wastewater from your home safely and efficiently. Drains also prevent sewage and other waste products from entering your home, which can cause serious health problems.

Living in a high area is also a risk for your home to experience flooding. If you live in an area that is prone to floods, it is important to have a drain situated in your basement. A basement flood can damage your belongings and make your home uninhabitable. Your basement walls and floor can be protected from water damage by having a drain placed.

As a homeowner, it is important to know the different types of drains and their functions. This will help you to properly maintain your drains and keep them in good working condition.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Drains

 

Advantages

• Drains keep your home free of sewage and other waste products.
• Drains can prevent flooding in your home by preventing the earliest forms of blockage.
• Drains can be the solution to reduce odors in your home.

Disadvantages

• Drains can become clogged, which can cause problems with your plumbing system.
• If not maintained properly, drains can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microbes.

 

Drainage Systems

There are two types of drainage systems: surface drains and subsurface drains. Surface drains are installed on the ground and collect water that is above the ground. Subsurface drains are installed below the ground and collect water that is below the ground. Each type of drain has its own advantages and disadvantages.

 

French Drain

A French drain is a type of drain that is installed around the perimeter of your home. French drains are used to collect and remove water from the soil around your home. French drains are typically made of gravel or rocks, and they have a pipe that runs through the center of the drain. The pipe collects the water and carries it away from your home. A french drain is usually applied in areas where there is a lot of rainfall or where there is a high water table. A french drain can admit water at a rate of 48 gallons per minute. Earlier french drains were simple ditches with gravel but now they are built with perforated pipes that carry water away from the home. There are two types of French drains; interior and exterior. The installation process of a French drain is different for each type.

We also have a rock drain, a drain tile, a blind drain, a rubble drain, and a land drain. But we are not going to talk about those today.

 

Interior French Drain

An interior French drain is a type of drain that is placed inside your home. Interior French drains are most often used in basement waterproofing. They are also used in other areas of the home where water leakage is a problem. Interior French drains are installed along your home’s foundation walls and collect water that seeps through cracks in your concrete walls. The water is then redirected to a sump pump, which pumps the water out of your home. Perforated pipe is used in interior French drains to allow water to enter the pipe. The pipe is then surrounded by gravel or other drainage material. The pipe is then covered with a layer of soil. The dirt cover helps to keep the gravel in place and also keeps the water from seeping into your home.

The perimeter of your home is not the only area that can be affected by water seepage. Interior French drains can also be installed in crawl spaces and other areas of your home where water leakage is a problem.

 

How Do You Install an Interior Drain?

Interior French drains are made by excavating a trench along your home’s foundation wall. A perforated pipe is then placed in the trench and covered with gravel. The gravel helps to redirect water to the pipe so that it can be pumped out of your home.

Installing an interior French drain is a big project, and it is best to hire a professional to do it for you. However, if you are handy and have some experience with plumbing, you may be able to install one yourself.

If you are considering installing an interior French drain, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need to obtain the proper permits from your local building department. Second, you will need to have a sump pump placed in your home so that the water can be properly pumped out. Third, consider the feet of your head that your pump will need to produce in order to properly remove the water from your home. Fourth, consider the perimeter of your house and the location of your French drain. You will need to have enough gravel on hand to cover the entire trench. Finally, you should make sure that your foundation walls are in good condition before you start the project. The foundation walls and the floor of your home should be sloped so that water can flow easily into the drain.

If you follow these tips, you should be able to successfully install an interior French drain in your house.

 

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a type of pump that is used to remove water from an area. Sump pumps are often used in basements and crawl spaces to remove water that has accumulated in these areas. Sump pumps are also used in homes with French drains. The sump pump is connected to the French drain and removes the water that has been collected by the drain.

Sump pumps come in a variety of different sizes and styles. The type of sump pump you need will depend on the amount of water you need to remove and the size of your home.

If you are considering installing a sump pump, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need to determine where the water will be discharged. Second, you will need to make sure that the pump is properly sized for your home. Finally, you should make sure that the area around the pump is free of debris so that the pump can operate properly.

 

What are the Different Types of Sump Pumps?

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible sump pumps are designed to be placed in a pit or basin. The pump is then submerged in water and turned on when water accumulates in the pit. Pedestal sump pumps are designed to sit on top of a pit or basin. The pump is not submerged in water but is instead connected to a pipe that runs into the pit. Pedestal sump pumps are less likely to clog than submersible sump pumps.

 

Is an Interior French Drain Worth It?

An interior French drain is a big investment, but it can be worth it if you live in an area where flooding is a problem. If your home is prone to water damage, an interior French drain can help to protect your home from the damaging effects of water. It is also a good idea to install an interior French drain if you have a basement.

 

Exterior French Drain

Exterior French drains are very similar to interior French drains. However, as the name suggests, they are installed on the exterior of your home. Exterior French drains are most often used in landscaping projects. They can also be used to redirect water away from the foundation to prevent flooding and basement leaks. The dirt will help to keep the gravel in place and also keep the water from seeping into your home. The perimeter of your home is not the only area that can be affected by water seepage. Exterior French drains can also be installed in crawl spaces and other areas of your home where water leakage is a problem. The concrete walls of your home should be waterproofed before an exterior French drain is installed.

 

How Do You Install an Exterior Drain?

Exterior French drains are made by excavating a trench along your home’s foundation. A perforated pipe is then placed in the trench and covered with gravel. The gravel helps to redirect water to the pipe so that it can be pumped out of your home. The installation of an exterior French drain is a big project, and it is best to hire a professional to do it for you. However, if you are handy and have some experience with plumbing, you may be able to install one yourself.

There are a lot of considerations before installing it yourself. The floor is one big consideration. If it’s not level, the installation will be more difficult. You’ll want to make sure that the area around your home is clear of debris so that the drain can operate properly. It’s also important to make sure that the pipe is properly sized for your home. The wall of your home should be waterproofed before the installation. The foundation of your home should also be in good condition before you begin.

 

Which is Better, Interior or Exterior French Drain?

The type of French drain you need will depend on the specific needs of your home. If you are simply trying to prevent basement flooding, an interior French drain may be all you need. However, if you are concerned about water seepage in other areas of your home, or if you live in an area with a high water table, and exterior French drain may be a better option. In any case, it is best to consult with a professional before making a decision. They will be able to assess your needs and recommend the best course of action for your home.

 

An Interior and Exterior French Drain Also Consists of a Perforated Pipe

The perforated pipe is the part of the drain that allows water to enter. It is important to make sure that this pipe is properly installed so that water can flow freely into it. It is installed around the perimeter of your home in a trench. The trench is then filled with gravel to help keep the pipe in place and to redirect water to it. The gravel helps to keep the pipe in place and also keeps the water from seeping into your home.

When choosing a perforated pipe for your drain, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

• You will need to choose a pipe that is made of durable material.
• You will need to choose a pipe that has holes of the right size. too small and the water will not be able to enter the pipe, too big and the water will flow too quickly and cause erosion.
• You need to make sure that the holes are spaced evenly so that the water can enter the pipe evenly.
• You need to make sure that the pipe is properly installed so that it does not become clogged.

 

What Is The Difference Between Exterior and Interior French Drain?

The main difference between exterior and interior French drains is their location. Interior French drains are built within your property, whilst exterior French drains are situated on the ground outside. Both types of French drains divert water away from the foundation, and your property, preventing flooding and leaks. The slope of your property, as well as the climate, will determine which type of French drain is best suited to your needs.

 

Sub-Soil Trench Drain

A sub-soil trench drain is a type of drain that is installed around the perimeter of your home below the ground’s surface. Sub-soil trench drains are most often used in commercial applications, but they can also be used in residential settings. Sub-soil trench drains are usually made of concrete or plastic and are designed to redirect water away from your walls to prevent flooding and leaks. The concrete or plastic is then covered with soil to hide the drain from view. The walls of the trench drain are usually sloped so that water can flow easily into the drain.

 

How Do You Install a Sub-Soil Trench Drain?

Installing a sub-soil trench drain is a relatively simple process. First, you will need to excavate a trench around the perimeter of your property. The trench should be wide enough to accommodate the drain and deep enough so that it is below the ground’s surface. Next, you will need to install the drain in the trench. The drain should be installed so that it slopes towards your property so that water can flow easily into it. Finally, the floor or the wall of the trench should then be covered with gravel to help keep the drain in place and to redirect water to it. The basement floor can also be covered with gravel to help keep the drain in place and to redirect water to it.

 

What Are The Benefits of a Sub-Soil Trench Drain?

There are many benefits of a sub-soil trench drain. Some of these benefits include:

• Can help to prevent flooding and leaks by redirecting water away from your property.
• Can help to reduce the amount of runoff from your property.
• Can help to improve the drainage of your property.
• Can help to protect your foundation from water damage.
• Can help to reduce the amount of erosion on your property.

 

If you are considering installing a drain on your property, then you should consider a sub-soil trench drain. A sub-soil trench drain can provide many benefits and can help to keep your property safe from water damage.

 

Differences Between The Three Drains

There are a few key differences between the three types of drains. First, interior and exterior French drains are installed above ground, while sub-soil trench drains are installed below the ground’s surface. Second, interior and exterior French drains are usually made of PVC or other plastic materials, while sub-soil trench drains are usually made of concrete. Finally, interior and exterior French drains are used to redirect water away from your home, while sub-soil trench drains are used to direct water away from your walls.

 

How Much Water Can These Three Drains Carry?

The capacity of these three drains varies depending on the size and type of drain. Interior and exterior French drains are typically able to carry more water than sub-soil trench drains. This is because they are larger and have more space for water to flow through them. Sub-soil trench drains are typically smaller in size and can become clogged more easily, so they are not able to carry as much water. Dirt can also build up in sub-soil trench drains, which can further reduce their capacity.

 

The Best Drain For You

The best drain for you will depend on your specific needs. If you are looking to redirect water away from your home, an interior or exterior French drain may be the best option. The installation process is also important because you have to consider where you want to install the drain. If you are looking to direct water away from your foundation, a sub-soil trench drain may be the best option. Also, consider the feet of your home. The drain needs to be installed on a level surface. If the surface is not level, it can cause problems with the function of the drain. Think about your needs and consult with a professional before making a decision. As a homeowner, it is best to install the correct type of drain to avoid costly repairs in the future. Your house and your wallet will thank you!

 

How Deep Should A Drain Be?

The depth of a drain depends on the purpose of the drain. For example, French drains are usually installed at a depth of two to three feet. Sub-soil trench drains are usually installed at a depth of four to six feet. The depth of the drain will also depend on the soil type and the amount of rainfall in your area. The perimeter drain around your home should be installed at a depth of six to twelve inches. The feet of your home should be level with the drain so that water can flow easily into the drain. The floor drain in your basement should be installed at a depth of eighteen inches. Also, consider the surface area of the drain. The larger the surface area, the more water the drain can carry.

 

Where Does the Water Go?

The water that is redirected by these drains typically goes into a storm sewer or a dry well. A storm sewer is a system of pipes that carries rainwater and runoff from streets, parking lots, and roofs to a natural body of water such as a river, lake, or ocean. A dry well is an underground structure that collects and stores rainwater until it can be absorbed into the ground. The water and dirt from the drain will flow into the storm sewer or dry well through gravity. The drainage system will prevent the water from pooling around your home and causing damage.

 

How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?

It is important to clean your drains regularly to prevent clogs and blockages. Depending on the type of drain, you should clean it every one to two years. French drains should be cleaned every one to two years. Sub-soil trench drains should be cleaned every five years. Fill any cracks or holes in your drains to prevent leaks.

Drain maintenance is important because it can prevent small problems from becoming big ones. By taking care of your drains, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements down the road. Make sure to clean your drains regularly and inspect them for any signs of damage.

 

Installing Drains By Yourself

Installing drains is a relatively easy process, but it is always best to consult with a professional before beginning any project. Doing it yourself can save you money, but it is important to make sure that you know what you are doing. The materials needed for a drain installation vary depending on the type of drain you are installing. Crushed stone is one of the most common materials used. This type of stone is able to filter water and allow it to drain quickly. Landscaping fabric is also used to prevent clogging and blockages. When installing a drain, make sure that the slope of the drain is correct so that water can flow easily into the storm sewer or dry well. Make sure to connect it to your drainage system before you begin using it.

If you are not comfortable installing the drain yourself, contact a professional plumber. They will be able to install the drain for you and ensure that it is installed correctly. It is worth the money to have it done right the first time. Your house is your biggest investment, so make sure that you protect it by working on the proper drainage system.

 

When to Install Drains?

If you are considering purchasing drains, the best time to buy them is during the spring or summer. This is because most homes are built during these seasons, and many drain manufacturers offer discounts during these times. Make sure to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase. If you wait until the last minute, you may end up paying more than you need to. Purchasing drains is easy, and with a little research, you can find the best deal on the type of drain that you need.

If you also notice signs of broken drains, it is best to immediately call a professional for repair or replacement services.

 

Broken Drains

If you notice that your drains are not functioning properly, the first thing you should do is contact a professional. They will be able to come out and assess the situation and determine what needs to be done. They have the access to the proper tools and equipment to check it. In some cases, a simple repair can be made. However, in other cases, a complete replacement may be necessary. It is important to have your drains serviced regularly to ensure that they are working properly.

 

Signs of Broken Drains

 

Water Damage

One of the most obvious signs that your drains are not working properly is water damage. If you notice any water stains on your ceilings or walls, it is a good idea to have your drains checked.

Leaking

Another sign that your drains are not functioning properly is leaking. If you notice any leaks around your drain pipes, it is important to have them checked as soon as possible. The floor around your drains should be dry at all times.

Slow Drainage

If you notice that it is taking longer for water to drain from your sink or tub, it could be a sign of a clog. It is important to have slow drainage checked because it can eventually lead to complete blockage.

Bad Smells

If you notice any bad smells coming from your drains, it could be a sign of a problem. Bad smells can be caused by a build-up of grease, soap scum, or hair.

Surface Water

If you notice any water pooling around your home, it could be a sign of a problem with your drains. Surface water can damage your foundation and lead to other problems.

Standing Water

If you notice any standing water in your home, it is a good idea to have your drains checked. Standing water can be a sign of a blockage or leak. It is important to have standing water checked because it can eventually lead to mold and mildew growth.

Wet Basement

If you notice any water in your basement, it is a good idea to have your drains checked. Wet basements can be caused by several things, but most often they are caused by a problem with the drainage system. Wet basements can lead to mold and mildew growth, so it is important to have them checked as soon as possible. Having a wet basement can also be a sign of a leaking sewer pipe.

 

The Cost of Replacing Drains

The cost of replacing drains will vary depending on the type of drain that you need. French drains can range in price from $500 to $2000. Sub-soil trench drains can range in price from $1000 to $3000. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a professional and have them assess the situation. They will be able to give you a more accurate estimate based on the type of drain that you need and the extent of the damage. It’s worth the cost!

 

Don’t Worry About Your Yard

If you are worried about your yard, don’t be. There are several ways to protect your yard when installing. French drains can be installed with a liner that will protect your yard from the drain. Sub-soil trench drains can also be installed with a liner to protect your yard. In most cases, the damage to your yard will be minimal and you won’t even notice it. The foundation of your yard is the most important thing to protect.

The slope of your yard is important to consider when installing drains. You don’t want to install drains that will cause water to pool in your yard. The floor of your home should be higher than the level of your yard so that water will drain away from your house. The roots of your trees and the roots of your plants are also important to consider when installing drains. You don’t want to damage them with the installation of the drain.

Let the experts find a solution for you that will not damage your yard. They have the tools and experience to find the best solution for your home.

 

Can It Be Installed on Your Roof?

In most cases, yes. However, it is important to contact a professional to assess the situation. They will be able to determine if your roof can support the weight of the drain and if there is enough space for the drain. Professionals can access your roof and determine if it is suitable. In some cases, a special support system may need to be installed on your roof to accommodate the drain. The slope of your roof may also need to be taken into consideration. The gutters on your roof play an important role in the function of the drain. It is important to make sure that they are in good working order and are not blocked. The foundation of your roof is the most important thing to protect.

 

The Time It Will Take to Replace and Install Drains

The installation time to replace your drains will vary depending on the type of drain you need. French drains can usually be installed in one day. Sub-soil trench drains can take anywhere from two to three days to install. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a professional and have them assess the situation. They will be able to give you a more accurate estimate based on the type of drain that you need and the extent of the damage. They will be able to fill you in on the details of what to expect and how long it will take. It also depends on the slope of your yard and the location of the drains.

 

Why The Need to Hire Professionals?

Hiring drainage experts to install your drains has a few key advantages. First, professionals have the experience and knowledge necessary to properly install your drains. Second, professionals can often get discounts from manufacturers, which can save you money. Finally, hiring a professional ensures that your drains are installed correctly and will function properly for years to come.

Now that you know more about the different types of drains and their functions, you can make an informed decision about which type of drain is best for your needs. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact a professional. Here in Pittsburgh, we have drain experts called Premier Waterproofing Group. You can reach us at (412) 214-8948. Or access our website at premierwaterproofinggroup.com. We would be happy to answer any of your questions!

Our system is installed by certified drainage experts and comes with a transferable warranty. Your house is our priority, and we want to make sure that it is protected against water damage. Don’t worry about the solutions to your drainage problems, let us take care of it! We would be more than happy to help you with your drain needs!