Drainage Problems Solved with Landscape Architecture
We consider the entire site when designing drainage systems, using pipes, rocks, plantings, and, above all, considering the aesthetics of the project.
Here, the project failed because the erosion problems of the landscape were not addressed. Water traveling over bare dirt eventually filled up the pipe with mud.
Check List for Successful Drainage Design:
Keep the Water Clean: Water should not flow over bare dirt. Your earth should be covered with plants, mulch, rock, or paving.
Size Pipes Appropriately: Multiple 4" gutter spout pipes need to be fed into a 6" pipe to handle the increasing amount of water. Same for catch basins: The pipe usually needs to be at least 6" to accomodate a runoff.
Keep the Pipe Length as Short as Possible: Long runs of pipe will eventually get clogged up and are impossible to clean out, especially if there are bends and turns.
Use Hardwall Pipe Under Paving and Areas that Cannot be Dug Up: PVC pipes can be cleaned with aplumber's snake or a pressure washer if they get stopped up by dirt or leaves, whereas flexible corrugated pipes cannot.
Maintain the Drainage System: Clean leaves out of gutters and over catch basins.
Remember That We are Working with Nature: We cannot force water to flow up a hill, make a U-Turn, or stop at a property line.
Rain Garden
This acts as a mini retention basin. The drain pipes on the property empty into the rain garden. From there, the water slowly seeps to lower ground instead of washing across the neighbor's property.
French Drain
Effective for draining wet flat areas; a perforated pipe is placed in gravel, and topped with stepping stones. Water finds it's way into the pipe, and the surface stays dry.
River Rock Swale
Water runs down the swale into a catch basin. Plants, mulch, and stepping stones protect the hill.
Call now to Schedule your Drainage Consultation770-822-9272
