The importance of drainage on any property cannot be overstated. A driveway is an example of a hardscape project that requires attention to detail. There are many problems that can arise from improper drainage, which is often overlooked. There are some that will show up quickly, while there are others that could take years to show up, by which time it will be too late. Here we will discuss why drainage is important as well as different types of drainage systems.
The importance of drainage on any property cannot be overstated. A driveway is an example of a hardscape project that requires attention to detail. It’s often overlooked, but improper drainage can lead to a number of problems. Some symptoms will appear immediately, while others may take years to appear, by which time it will be too late. We will discuss why drainage is so important as well as different types of drainage systems for your property in this post.
Importance of Drainage for Driveways
Concrete and other paved surfaces can be damaged, discolored, and worn excessively if water is not properly disposed of. Furthermore, it washes out and destabilizes base materials and enters subgrade soil levels causing expansion and loss of load bearing capacity.
Cracks, lifting, base shifting, and similar damage occur, requiring complete demolition and replacement of any affected pavement. Unpaved surfaces, such as a lawn, may become soggy and wash soil away, destroying plants in the process. However, the foundation of the house itself may sustain the most damage.
If water finds its way into your foundation, which may happen if drainage isn’t designed and built by educated professionals, it may damage it, causing an enormous problem that will be very expensive to fix.
With our team of engineers, drainage is taken very seriously, and we examine each case individually. It depends on many factors what type of drainage you use to make sure your property is free of water issues.
Channel and Basin Drains
Channel drains and basin drains are used on paved surfaces. The only difference between these two is their shape and size. Both collect water flowing freely on the paved surface. Box drains are commonly placed next to curbs or retaining walls, or may simply be sloped toward them from a paved surface. Water channels drain over a larger area, essentially protecting vulnerable objects, like garages at the bottom of sloped driveways. They are used to cut off water flow over a larger area. Water that has nowhere else to go will be captured by these two systems and will otherwise pool and drench your fence, walls, or foundation.
We are block paving and driveway specialists at KS Paving Ltd are dedicated to providing the best solutions to our clients through high quality workmanship and the use of market leading materials. We take pride in the standard of our work, as we strive to deliver a professional and personal service to all our clients. Our expert team operates in Reading, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, so get in touch with us today on 01189 696630 to arrange a free site survey and receive a written quotation.
