Beginner Gardening: HELP - NEED TO BUILD DRAIN AROUND PROPERTY, 1 by Diana_K

Diana_K wrote:
I can help if you can get me some numbers.

1) Is the property a rectangle 30m x 16m? Is the drainage system you want to connect to along the 30m part or the 16m part?

2) What is the change of elevation from the lowest point to the highest point?

3) Please draw a simple diagram of the property and include the high point and the low point, and where you want to build.

Here is a suggested solution that shows the concept, but without the drawing of your property this is not accurate.

If you are allowed to add soil to the property or to move soil around on the property then the first line of defense is to build on the highest spot, even if you have to mound up the soil yourself. Consult with an engineer. Some soils do not work well this way. You will have to compact the soil.

Build a retaining wall on the uphill side that can divert a lot of the surface water. Consult with an engineer about the materials and best installation so the first flood does not wash away the wall!

Trench around the house and add perforated pipe near the bottom of the trench. Backfill with coarse gravel (size2- 5cm is good). This will collect the water that is moving through the soil and keep the soil under the house drier.
You can add a solid pipe in the same trench that collects water from the surface such as area drains, catch basins and the downspouts from the house. Consult with an engineer about how large a pipe and what size catch basins you will need.