Concrete Catch Basin Installation
When considering how to drain water from the driveway, you may not be aware of a tool often used in landscaping. A catch basin, also called a storm drain, is a series of grates and underground pipes that help guide rainwater from one location of your property to city sewers or other low-level waterways. G&G Concrete & Construction Inc. has been in the business of storm drains for many years and is a trusted source for storm drain installation. However, before installing such a system, you may be wondering about the specifics of a catch basin and what the concrete catch basin installation requires, especially for pre-existing concrete forms, like driveways.
Fundamentals
A catch basin driveway drain can help prevent flooding in low-lying areas. These systems are typically installed at the lowest point on your driveway and lead to an existing storm drain. While you may think that a catch basin may not be all that attractive, certain applications allow for the installation of decorative grates. All catch basins have a grate system, piping and connect to existing drainage systems.
Installation
The main concern with concrete catch basin installation is the slope. A basin should never be installed at the high point of a driveway or yard because this nullifies its usefulness. Catch basins are designed to help alleviate flooding in low areas. As for installation, there are a few essential steps for driveway installation.
- Cut Away the Concrete
One of the most pivotal steps in the concrete catch basin installation process is cutting away any existing concrete. You need to make these cuts in the proper position to allow for adequate drainage and slope.
- Cut Away the Concrete
- Dig TrenchesOnce you have cut away and removed the concrete, you will need to dig the trenches for the pipes of the catch basin. There should be a predesigned route for the pipes, and they should slope toward the existing drain.
- Check ConnectionsAfter the trenches are dug, you will want to lay out all of the pipes and connections. This preliminary layout allows you to catch any potential issues before you put everything together and install the system.
- Place and Secure BasinUsing gravel or concrete, you will want to secure the basin. Make sure that there is adequate space around the basin to make final connections and adjustments during the final installation.
- Connect Pipes and Check Drainage
After securing the basin, you will need to connect all pipes and check the drainage. To check the slope and effectiveness of your system, use a garden hose and spray directly into the pipes. If everything drains and does not backup or flood, then you are ready for the final step.
- Connect Pipes and Check Drainage
- Backfill and Finish
To finish your catch basin installation, you will backfill with gravel or finish with concrete. Then, you will install your grates.
- Backfill and Finish
While catch basins are useful for preventing garage and home flooding, they can be used in other areas of your property. In fact, most catch basins are installed around landscaping to ensure the beauty and continued health of your plants.
Damage and Repair
While these systems are designed well and can withstand a lot of flooding, they will require maintenance and upkeep. Tree roots and other debris can potentially damage your system, making it vulnerable. In the event of irreparable damage, you can repeat the steps above to replace your system.
Consult an Expert
Due to the complexity and sophistication of drainage systems, it is often recommended that you hire a professional for installation and upkeep. If you are interested in installing a catch basin or drainage system, then you can call G&G Concrete & Construction Inc. at 586-571-0337. As an industry leader, they are more than qualified to assist you in all your drainage needs.
