Best Types of Foundation Drainage Systems

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Best Types of Foundation Drainage Systems – Water Control Needs – Advice in Action

Best Types of Foundation Drainage Systems – Water Control Needs – Advice in Action

What are the best types of foundation drainage systems? It depends on the specific conditions, such as soil type, climate, water table level, and foundation. However, footing drains (perimeter drains) are generally the most effective for preventing water from reaching the foundation because they are installed at the base of the foundation and actively intercept groundwater before it can enter the structure.

Each foundation drainage system has its specific use case, and they can also work together to provide comprehensive water management.

When to Use – When They Complement One Another

When are Footing Drains Required?

When to Use: Footing drains are typically installed during construction. They are placed at the base of the foundation, along the footing, and are best for preventing groundwater from pooling around the foundation. They’re ideal for areas with a high-water table or poor drainage.
Combination Use: Keep water away from the foundation by pairing footing drains with French drains, surface drainage, and downspouts.

Foundation Drainage Downspout to french drain

What are French Drains Used For?

When to Use: French drains are versatile. They can be used around building perimeters or in specific areas prone to pooling water. They also work well in areas with moderate to heavy rainfall and where surface drainage alone isn’t sufficient.
Combination Use: French drains work well with gutters, downspouts, and dry wells. Redirect surface water and groundwater away from critical areas.

What is Surface Drainage (Swales, Gutters, and Downspouts) Used For?

When to Use: Surface drainage is crucial for managing rainwater directly around a building. Swales help direct water flow across a larger area, while gutters and downspouts are vital for collecting and directing rainwater from the roof.
Combination Use: Gutters and downspouts should direct water away from the foundation to areas with good surface drainage (like swales) or into French drains, trench drains, or dry wells.

When Do You Use Dry Wells?

When to Use: Dry wells are effective for collecting and dispersing water from downspouts, French drains, and surface drainage systems. They’re ideal for absorbing water into the ground in areas with good soil percolation.
Combination Use: Dry wells collect water from French drains, trench drains, or downspouts. They’re particularly effective in reducing surface runoff in conjunction with these systems.

Foundation Drainage-Channel or Trench Drainage Ditch

When Do You Use Trench Drains?

When to Use: Trench drains are great for surface-level water management, especially in areas with hard surfaces, such as driveways, patios, or parking lots. They capture runoff quickly in areas with heavy rainfall or water flow.
Combination Use: Trench drains are often combined with French drains or dry wells to handle the collected water. They can also work with surface drainage systems to direct water away from high-traffic areas.

Best Combinations for Specific Scenarios

High Groundwater Areas: Footing drains + French drains + dry wells
Surface Water Management Around the Home: Gutters + downspouts + swales or trench drains + dry wells
Hard Surfaces like Driveways: Trench drains + French drains or dry wells
Poor Soil Drainage Areas: French drains + dry wells to direct water away to more absorbent areas

Best Types of Foundation Drainage Systems – Water Control Needs Advice in Action

Combine drainage systems for comprehensive drainage solutions. Help protect your foundation from water damage. Use drainage systems together for best results. For example, a home uses a gutter system to direct roof runoff down to a French drain. The French drain directs water away from the foundation. This multi-layered approach maximizes protection against water intrusion. While setting up your foundation drainage system, make note of any foundation changes. Contact is if you see any foundation problems.

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