Four Essential Commercial Hardscape Drainage Options

Hardscaping projects are incredibly visually appealing and can add a lot to your space. Given this, you’ll want to do all you can when it comes to maintaining and protecting them. The best way to do this is by equipping your space with the right drainage systems. This is easier said than done as there are a slew of drainage options to choose from. To help simplify things, here are four essential commercial hardscape drainage options that you have to know about.

Spot Drains

Spot drains consist of multiple single drains connected through underground PVC pipes to the main drain, taking water runoff away from the surface. This is typically used around pool decks and similar areas. While they do take up less space, spot drains require the ground to slope in four directions in order to work optimally. Be sure to check if your space is right for this type of drainage option before installing it into your space.

Trench Drains

Whenever you see a metal grate with small holes in it on the ground, you’re likely to be looking at a trench drain system. These are some of the most common commercial systems for directing water runoff underground. Trench drain systems can run over large expanses, redirecting water runoff through a drain tunnel and out of sight. The biggest drawback to this drainage option is its size. Trench drains can be quite bulky and may serve as an eyesore so be sure to take their size into consideration before opting to go for this option for your hardscapes.

French Drains

French drains are a drainage system that has been in use for several centuries, originally used as a form of “farm drainage.” The system consists of a perforated pipe that empties into a gravel bed, which then diverts the water to a drain or irrigation cistern. It’s important to note that french drains require a significant amount of excavation of the landscaping to install so be sure to take this into consideration before committing to this drainage option. 

Permeable Pavers

Pavers with permeable surfaces are a newer type of commercial hardscape. They help manage water runoff by directing water back into the ground in a slower manner, reducing your dependence on storm sewers. They also help to reduce the number of pollutants in water runoff since it travels through various layers of gravel or stone to reach the water table. Despite being an attractive drainage option due to its potential to be environmentally friendly, permeable pavers are also significantly more expensive than traditional drainage options. To add to this, permeable pavers also require a lot of maintenance. Be sure to keep this in mind before deciding to go with this drainage option for your commercial space.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you choose the right drainage option for your space. Remember, it’s not about finding the best option as these drainages have advantages and disadvantages that can make them good for your space. Instead of trying to find the “best” option, try to gauge which drainage option works best for your commercial space.

Sir Williams Drainage And Waterproofing Solutions provides residential and commercial property owners with quality and reliable landscaping services in Belleville, Sumpter, and Van Buren Township Areas. From waterproofing and landscaping to outdoor drainage solutions, our range of services is the best in the business. Contact us whenever you need drainage contractors in Michigan for your hardscapes.