Drainage tile is an essential part of our homes that we barely notice, but it plays a critical role in keeping our homes dry and safe, especially during the rainy season. Here we will explore the reasons why we are obsessed with drainage tiles and why it should be a top priority for homeowners who want to avoid water damage and flooding.
What is Drainage Tile?
Drainage tile, also known as drain tile or French drain, is a perforated pipe that is installed underground around the foundation of your home. Its primary function is to collect excess water and direct it away from your home, preventing it from seeping into your basement, crawl space or foundation, causing flooding, water damage, and structural issues.
Why We’re Obsessed with Drainage Tile
We are obsessed with drainage tile for several reasons, and here are a few of them:
It Prevents Flooding
Flooding can occur without warning during a storm, and it can cause extensive damage to your home, your properties, and even your health. Installing drainage tile ensures that any excess water from your roof, gutter, or landscape is directed away from your home, preventing water from seeping into your basement or crawl space.
It Prevents Water Damage
Water damage can occur gradually without notice, and it can weaken your home’s foundation, walls and create an unhealthy living environment. Drainage tiles collect water before it gets a chance to cause damage to your home, making it a smart investment for any homeowner.
It Improves Indoor Air Quality
A damp or wet basement or crawl space can create an unhealthy environment for you, your pets and your loved ones. Mold and mildew can grow in damp areas, leading to allergies, respiratory problems and other health issues. Installing drainage tile ensures that the foundation and crawl space of your home remain dry and reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth, resulting in fresher indoor air quality.
It Increases Home Value
A dry and structurally sound home is an attractive one for potential buyers. Installing drainage tile is a smart investment for homeowners who want to increase their property’s value and appeal to homebuyers in the future.
When to Install Drainage Tile
It’s important to install drainage tile during construction or when you notice any signs of excess water around your home’s foundation. A damp basement or crawl space, musty smell, mold growth, and water stains on walls are all signs of a potential water issue that need to be addressed by a professional.
How to Install Drainage Tile
Installing drainage tile requires the skills of an experienced professional to ensure proper installation and functionality. Here are the basic steps involved in installing drainage tile:
- Excavating the area around the foundation to create a trench
- Installing a permeable fabric or weed barrier along the trench to prevent clogging
- Installing the drainage tile in the trench, with the perforated side facing down
- Connecting the drainage tile to a sump pump or daylight outlet to direct water away from your home
- Filling the trench with gravel to allow water to flow freely through the drainage tile
Maintaining Drainage Tile
As with any home system, drainage tile requires maintenance to keep it functioning correctly. Here are a few maintenance tips for homeowner with drainage tile:
- Ensure that the drainage tile is free of debris and not clogged with dirt or roots
- Regularly check your sump pump to ensure it is working correctly and directing water away from your home
- Inspect the drainage tile during the spring and fall to ensure it’s not damaged or clogged
- Trim trees and shrubs to prevent their roots from growing into the drainage tile system and causing clogs
In Conclusion
Drainage tile is a crucial home system that many homeowners often overlook, but it plays a vital role in keeping your home dry, safe and healthy. Investing in drainage tile installation guarantees that your home will remain safe and dry, reducing the risk of water damage and improving your indoor air quality. Remember to hire an experienced professional to install and maintain your drainage tile system, and your home will thank you for it.