Everything You Need To Know About Land Drains
Land drains are systems that remove excess water from the ground.
They use land drain pipes with holes buried underground, surrounded by gravel or backfill material.
These pipes move excess surface water away, preventing problems like waterlogging and standing water.
Types of Land Drains
French Drain: a ditch filled with gravel and a perforated land drainage pipe that moves surface and groundwater.
Surface Water Drainage: systems that collect and move rainwater from roofs and paved areas.
Soakaway Crates: Underground boxes that store water and slowly release it into the soil.
Underground Drainage: A network of pipes beneath the surface for managing water flow.
Drainage Channel: A long, shallow ditch that collects and directs water flow.
Parts of a Land Drainage System
Pipes
The main part of any drainage system is the land drain pipe. In 2024, we have several types:
- Rigid Perforated Land Drainage: Has small holes to let water in. New eco-friendly versions use recycled materials.
- Rigid Perforated Twinwall Drainage: Strong pipe with a smooth inside for good water flow. The new ones are even stronger.
- Coil Perforated Land Drain: Flexible and come in long lengths. Good for covering big areas.
Drainage Fittings
To make a complete system, you'll need:
- Multi Junction (also known as) Y Junction: Connect pipes or change water direction.
- Land Drain End Cap: Seals the end of a pipe.
- Land Drain Connector: Joins pipe sections together.
Membranes
The Geotextile Membrane's special fabric is important. It comes in two types:
Non-Woven Geotextile:
- Lets water through easily
- Stops soil particles from blocking the pipes
- Keeps soil in place
Woven Geotextile:
- It is stronger but doesn't let water through as easily
- Good for separating different soil types
- Used in areas with heavy static loads
Other Components
- Manhole Covers: Let you check and clean the system.
- Catch-pit Chambers: Collects debris to prevent pipe blockages.
- Decorative Gravels: Can be used on the surface for a nicer look.
Installation Guide
Land drain installation takes careful planning:
- Check the Site: Look at soil type, water table, and how water naturally flows.
- Make a Plan: Decide where the pipes will go and their pipe diameter.
- Dig Trenches: Make ditches following your plan.
- Lay the Pipe: Put the perforated pipes in the trenches with gravel around them.
- Add Geotextile: Wrap the pipes and gravel in a membrane.
- Fill the Trenches: Carefully put the soil back, keeping pipes in place.
- Connect the System: Link it to a suitable watercourse or drainage network.
Remember to consider the static load, especially in areas with traffic or buildings.
For more information, you can have a look at our land drain installation guide.
Land Drain System Maintenance
To keep your land drain working properly:
- Check it every year, especially after heavy rain.
- Clear out any leaves or dirt from the surface drains and catch pits.
- Look for puddles, which might mean there's a blockage.
- Flush the system sometimes to clear out any build-up.
If you continue to have problems, like areas that won't dry or slow drainage, ask a professional for help with land drain maintenance guide.
Special Uses
Here are the special uses for land drains.
For Agricultural Land
Land drains are very important for farms. They help:
- Stop water from pooling and washing away soil.
- Make soil healthier for plants.
- Let farmers start work earlier in the season.
For Sports Fields
Good drainage is crucial for sports fields:
- Stops puddles and mud.
- Keeps the playing surface even.
- Reduces how often the field needs fixing.
For Artificial Grass and Composite Decking
Modern garden features need good drainage, too:
- Artificial grass needs drainage to stop water build up and stay looking good.
- Composite decking lasts longer and is safer when water drains away properly.
What's New in 2024?
- Smart Systems: Using technology to monitor drainage and alert you to problems.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: More use of recycled and natural building materials that break down safely.
- Water Management: Systems that collect rainwater for use in gardens or toilets.
- Climate-Ready Design: Drainage that can handle more extreme weather.
- Computer-Aided Planning: Using advanced software to design the best drainage systems.
Choosing the Right Products
When picking parts for your land drain:
- Pipe Size: Choose based on how much water you need to move.
- Material Quality: Pick strong materials that will last a long time.
- Compatibility: Make sure all parts work together.
- Environmental Impact: Look for eco-friendly options when possible.
Wrapping Up
Understanding land drains is important for anyone dealing with water problems on their property. Whether you own a home, farm, or manage a sports field, a good land drainage system can improve your land.
Remember, while you might be able to do small projects yourself, big or complicated systems are often best left to professionals. Always use good quality materials and plan carefully to ensure your drain works well for a long time.
