Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Drywell

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Drainage/Waterproofing
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 01 Dec 2001
Time: 12:17 PM

Comments

With the right soil conditions, dry wells can be used effectively to dissipate runoff from roofs and landscaping. However, as you point out, clay soil drains poorly and can retain significant amounts of water due to the tight binding of the soil elements. It would be helpful to understand a little more about your situation, such as the size of area to be drained, where in the country you live, what the typical rainfall is (including worst-case inches per hour if known) as well as something about the lot configuration and slope. For example, is this in a city area? A rurual area? Is there a gutter nearby or storm drain which could be used as an outlet? What kind of slope does the lot have relative to the house? How many areas are problematic? Are you experiencing foundation drainage problems, or is this just a nuissance level of ponding after a heavy rain? With more information, we can make a more precise recommendation.

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