Drainage guide
Drainage System Guides
Each system has a specific role: collect surface water, convey roof runoff, intercept hardscape flow, manage saturated soil or restore a surface route.
Surface inlets
Catch basins collect water at a visible low point and normally convey it in solid pipe.
Solid downspout pipe
A contained line moves concentrated roof water away from the foundation without asking soil to absorb it.
French drains
A fabric-and-aggregate trench collects water moving through saturated soil and carries it through perforated pipe.
Channel drains
A linear grate intercepts runoff crossing a driveway, patio or threshold.
Grading and swales
A broad shallow surface route may manage runoff with less buried infrastructure when usable fall exists.
Educational guidance only. Property-specific recommendations require site elevations, utility information, a verified outlet and applicable local requirements.
Assessment first
See what the water is doing before selecting the system.
Photos during or immediately after rain are especially useful.