In the process of assessing the durability of a structure, many people tend to pay attention to its design, materials used in the construction process, as well as the quality of construction work. However, there is another important element that is often ignored and which can significantly influence the durability of a structure — drainage.
While water may not appear harmful in the first place, its inappropriate management can result in a variety of issues that will eventually affect the foundations, structural elements of the building, as well as infrastructure located around the building.
*Why Is It Important to Have Good Drainage When Building?
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Any construction site inevitably comes into contact with water — be it from rainfall, groundwater, irrigation, surface runoff, etc. Thus, a good drainage system becomes an important element of any successful construction.
Without proper drainage, water will gradually deteriorate soil and foundation, resulting in additional costs of maintenance.
*Stability of Foundation and Soil Conditions
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Building stability starts from the bottom. Soil is supposed to bear the weight load but high moisture content may result in soil instability.
There are soils that weaken under water saturation; there are soils that expand and contract due to moisture content. All these lead to such effects:
- Uneven settlement
- Foundation shifting
- Building cracking
- Misalignment of doors and windows
- High repairing costs And this is why it is essential to know about the site’s drainage as much as about the soil.
*Accumulation of Water Around the Building
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Bad drainage results in the formation of water around the building. It creates hydrostatic pressure against the foundation wall making it prone to water infiltration.
The result can be:
- Basement leakages
- Wet crawl spaces
- Fungal growth
- Interior water damage
- Destruction of building materials
Prevention of water accumulation is one of the best methods for the protection of the building’s stability.
*Impact on Pavements and Other Site Infrastructure
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Problems with drainage do not affect just the building. Roadways, parking areas, retaining walls, and walkways may also be affected when water drainage issues become a problem.
Water will cause the following problems to occur:
- Surface erosion
- Cracking in pavement
- Sinkhole formations
- Instability of slope
- Shortened life expectancy of infrastructure
An effective site drainage system will assist in preserving not only buildings but other site infrastructure as well.
*Importance of Site Investigations
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Site investigation should begin long before a drainage system is designed. The engineering team looks at soil properties, groundwater, site topography, and anticipated water flow to determine where any problems might exist.
Site investigations and geotechnical investigations provide information for effective drainage design. Useful sources for information regarding site investigation, testing and construction assistance are available from Enviro Test Construct .
Best Practices for Handling Drainage
Perform Detailed Site Investigations
This is useful in determining drainage issues at the site prior to any expenses being incurred.
*Provide Proper Grading
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Grading of sites should help keep water away from foundations and other critical structures.
*Include Drainage Features
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Drainage systems like surface drains, subsurface drainage systems, and storm water management systems can assist in controlling water flow effectively.
*Continuous Monitoring of Drainage Issues
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Periodic inspections can be helpful in ensuring that drainage systems are working as planned.
*Benefits of Providing Proper Drainage
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There are many benefits associated with drainage planning:
- Better performance of the foundation
- Lesser risks structurally
- Cost savings
- Water damage prevention
- Increased lifespan of the structure
This makes construction projects better and more efficient.
*Closing Remarks
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Poor drainage is a problem frequently associated with poor building performance, but it is something that can easily be prevented through proper planning and site analysis. Poor drainage can have an impact on foundations, soil stability, building components, and even nearby structures.
Proper planning for drainage early in the process helps ensure reduced risks, good structural performance, and long-term protection of the investment.
In the construction industry, drainage is more than just maintenance; it is a major component in building performance.
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