Drainage is an area that we all know about, but we don’t often think about, however, it is absolutely necessary to avoid potential risks and problems becoming bigger and more costly issues.
Ultimately, drainage helps to remove excess water, waste, and moisture from a particular area, manoeuvring it through piping systems to a more prominent drainage solution.
When it comes to drainage pipe installation, we cannot stress enough how important it is to get this right.
You have to ensure you’re working with the right materials, you have the right tools, and the drainage system is in the right place, with the right slopes, bends, and more. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional team with experience in installation and various types of drainage solutions to ensure you get the most appropriate one for your situation.
What is drainage?
Drainage definition – removing water from a specific area using various pipes, bends, and junctions.
Systems can be as simple as a drainage basin leading to a single pipe or as complex as a network of channels and pipes transporting large volumes of water.
Typically, you will find most drainage systems manufactured from PVC, as it is a lightweight material that is also strong, durable, long-lasting, and cost-effective.
You can also find clay and concrete systems as well as metal piping.
With various solutions available, it’s important that you choose the right materials and piping solution for you.
Why is drainage required?
Commercial plumbers work tirelessly to install the right drainage solutions as excess water can affect a building’s foundations, leading to structural damage, development of mould, and dampness.
Drainage is also required:
- To maintain the stability and integrity of buildings, gardens, and farmland.
- To prevent water from pooling and building up, causing damage to surroundings and possible corrosion.
- To keep structures safe and dry.
- To avoid land instability and soil erosion from excess water.
How to install drainage
Drainage installation requires meticulous planning by professional commercial plumbing contractors, groundwork teams, or general builders, preparing the area and taking into account the equipment needed, the environmental conditions they will be working with, and finally, careful implementation and installation.
First, examine the area where the drain will be placed, i.e., is there water pooling in certain areas? Identify what system is needed, what volume of water/rainfall you are dealing with, what the slope of the land/area is, etc.
Once you have all of the information and groundwork plans, you can then begin to determine the layout of the drainage system, i.e., where the pipes will be located, how they will run, and where will the water flow.
Getting started with the installation:
- Dig out the channels for the pipework, identifying an outlet for the water. You must ensure that there is enough room around the pipe to allow for expansion and natural ground movement. Ideally, the channel/trench that is dug out should be 300mm wider than the pipe that is being laid. Channels must also follow the natural slope of the land with pipe feeders that are then used to meet the main line.
- Lay the pipes and ensure these are sloped so water can run away from the area (pipes are typically placed 40-60cm deep and 3-6 metres apart). Pipes are often connected to each other using a push-fit system, and we advise that if pipes need to be cut, this is carried out with precision and connected using the right sealant and connector.
- Fill the channels and surround the pipework with concrete, stone, and soil. We would advise that tape is placed around the pipe or gravel on top of the piping that acts as a warning that there is a pipe below; this helps to prevent the pipe from being damaged or hit when digging takes place.
- Install the drainage basins that will direct the water into the pipes.
Maintenance
Maintenance of drainage basins and areas should be carried out regularly, making sure these areas are free from debris and blockages. It’s also essential to carry out inspections on drains to spot any problems early, for example, repairing cracks or leaks asap and replacing any worn parts.
Commercial plumbers
Good drainage is crucial. You need to think about where the water will go and follow the relevant guidance and laws surrounding drainage installation.
At Northwich Plumbers we’re here to help.
As professional and experienced commercial plumbers, we can help you install and maintain a wide range of piping systems.
We’re equipped with the right tools matched with high-quality materials and an unrivaled level of customer service that makes our customers return to us time and time again.
If you’re suffering from water buildup, excess water pooling in areas that it shouldn’t, or you need a new drainage system to replace outdated and worn pipes, call and speak with a member of our team today and see how we can help you.
Call us on 01606 374 020.
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