Rainstorms create a relaxing and tranquil environment but last only as long as your stormwater drainage system can keep up. An estimated 98 percent of basements in the United States flood at some point, and many floods are caused by storm runoff having nowhere else to go.
Stormwater drainage solutions are the most effective way to protect your property and home from water damage. Altering your landscaping and adding ditches is an excellent way to guide the water away from your home and into a sewer or creek.
Luckily, you’ve arrived at the best destination to explore all your options for draining stormwater away from your home. Continue reading to learn about the six options and their pros and cons today!
1. Drainage Ditches
Ditches are an open system for storm runoff to move quickly away from your property. They’re an excellent option to route water off roads near your property and away from your yard. A ditch is the go-to solution if you prefer a DIY stormwater drainage system.
They’re cost-effective and will save you thousands of dollars in water damage. Whether you hire a professional service or dig the ditches yourself, it’s the most budget-friendly option for storm runoff. Depending on the size, the average ditch will cost between $250 and $1,000.
The most significant benefit of choosing a ditch is the convenience. It’s a simple method that doesn’t require special tools. It’s also an easy system to clean and maintain.
Drainage ditches are a safety hazard during winter months. It’s worth considering if they’re a viable solution for your property if you live in a cold climate. They also harm the environment if the storm runoff carries chemicals into the soil.
2. Catch Basins
Catch basins are a viable solution if you live in an area connected to your city or town’s sewer system. The basin collects water from along sidewalks and roads and routes it into the sewer to be carried away from your home or property.
A metal grate or lid protects the basin to prevent people from falling into it and debris from entering. The water is then filtered for dirt, contaminants, and debris. You’ll require assistance from Stormwater Management in Denver to install a catch basin in your yard.
It’s a more expensive option than drainage ditches, but it’s also easier to maintain and more effective. Your catch basin will cost between $1,000 and $4,000 to install.
Consider a catch basin if you value sustainability for the environment. It also allows for a higher capacity of storm runoff. Odors and pest infestations are the two drawbacks to consider before choosing this option.
3. French Drains
Most basement floods begin with water collecting around your home’s foundation. French drains are a fantastic solution if you’re worried about a basement flood in your home. They’re the ideal option to carry storm runoff away from your home to limit property damage.
The system combines small grates near the foundation with a long pipe to lead the water away toward a collection basin or sewer system. You can use colorful stones and rocks to decorate around the drains to add to your home’s curb appeal.
It’s one of the more expensive options, with high-end French drains costing $18,000. It’s beneficial for the environment because it limits groundwater contamination. It’s also an efficient option with a lifespan reaching 40 years.
The primary drawback is a structural change to your property. You may need to disrupt existing structures and systems to install your stormwater drainage solution. It’s also less effective with light volumes of rain.
4. Slot Drains
Slot drains are a new technique homeowners use to manage storm runoff and protect their property. The system uses multiple slim openings to collect water, routed to a catch basin beneath the drain.
Due to the small openings, these drainage systems do not require a grate. It’s also fantastic if you value a minimalist option that doesn’t detract from your home’s appearance.
They’re an expensive but effective option, with materials and labor costing between $30 and $100 per linear foot. The most significant pro of slot drains is their strength since you can use them on
driveways and sidewalks to carry water away. They’re also challenging to clog and easy to maintain.
The only con of installing slot drains on your property is their low capacity. They’re most effective when faced with light rain.
5. Permeable Pavement
Permeable pavement is the greenest option to consider if you want to protect your property and help the environment. The system uses a porous pavement option to create an efficient
stormwater drainage system.
The holes allow the water to pass through and enter the soil. Asphalt and porous cement are the best building materials to prevent storm runoff. The cost is low, with the high-end costing $30 per square foot.
It’s one of the most effective options for draining large volumes of stormwater. Your permeable
pavement is also drivable and walkable. The only con is the cost, which could push it out of your price range.
6. Rain Garden
A rain garden is a stunning way to capture storm runoff and create an oasis on your property. You can design one by creating an area that sits lower than the rest of your property. You’ll make a safe area for storm runoff to collect and drain.
It’s one of the most cost-effective drainage systems and a fun DIY project to tackle with your family. The primary drawback is the maintenance required to keep it pristine.
Invest in a Stormwater Drainage System for Your Home
Stormwater drainage is an essential investment and home improvement project to carry storm runoff away from your home’s foundation. Permeable pavement is an effective and eco-friendly system, while French drains add to your home’s curb appeal. A rain garden is a stunning DIY
project you can use to collect storm runoff in a natural and tranquil way.
Home improvement is a fantastic way to learn new skills and find fulfillment in work. Check out our Home and Garden content for tips and inspiration for your next project!