Learn all about french drains.
A French drain can be a very effective drainage system if you have water drainage problems on your commercial property. The system helps to get rid of excess water on your property or parking lot, and empties water a safe distance away from your building. Continue reading to learn more about French drains and why you should install one.
How Does It Work?
A French drain is essentially a pipe in the ground that collects rainwater. They are often used in residential properties to keep water out of the home and basement, and relocate the water to a safe area in the yard. However, they are also beneficial to commercial properties, as excess water in a parking lot is dangerous for customers and can cause damage to the pavement. The wide pipe is often angled downward to keep water streaming, and gravel is placed on top of the pipe to collect water easily.
Advantages Of A French Drain
A French drain is useful for solving various drainage problems, including water damage in foundations and basements, lawns and landscaped areas, playgrounds and fields, parking lots and driveways, retaining walls, and more. The French drain has no moving parts, which is a significant advantage as there is less chance of a breakdown or issue. Also, French drains typically last a long time, especially when installed by a professional.
Installing A French Drain
If you are thinking about installing a French drain, there are a few things to do to get started. First, the exact path for the drain must be planned, as it must avoid exterior water pipes and sewer channels. Planning the exit point is crucial, as the excess water should go to a sunny, low-lying area that doesn’t affect another property.
If you only have a problem with surface water, you can install a shallow French drain, or curtain drain, instead. This type of drain extends directly uphill of the area you want to dry out, and is not as deep as a French drain.
Services You Can Trust from PTG Enterprises
Located in Linthicum, MD, PTG Enterprises has been in the commercial concrete, masonry, asphalt installation, repair, and paving business for almost 20 years. We offer our services throughout Baltimore, Harford, Anne Arundel, Howard, and P.G. Counties. If you are interested in hearing how we can help you, contact us online or give us a call at (410) 636-8777. For more tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Google+, and Flickr.
