The Installation of Drain Lines Before Pouring Basement Floors

Identification

• Drain tiles are corrugated plastic pipes that are installed beside the footing of the home at construction. This type of perimeter drainage system is installed with a layer of gravel underneath the concrete slab. The gravel provides a barrier that keeps moisture from coming into contact with the concrete slab. Together, the drain tiles and gravel keep moisture from coming inside your basement and causing damage.

Installation

• Drain tile pipe must be flat and sloped toward the foundation drain termination point or to a sump pump.The top of drain tile pipes must be below the slab and surrounded with gravel wrapped in filter cloth to avoid clogging. Drain tiles that become clogged with dirt or debris will not drain water effectively.

Inspection

• Before pouring your basement floor, you must have your drain tile inspected. This ensures proper installation of your drain tile and is imperative to keeping your basement dry. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, drain tiles must be inspected before back filling begins.

Considerations

• When discharging your drain tiles to daylight, you must carry water at least 10 feet from your home to prevent runoff and basement flooding. When discharging to a sump pump, be sure to cover the sump pump pit to avoid pollutants and dangerous gases such as radon from seeping through your basement foundation. Proper installation of drain lines before pouring basement floors can keep your home dry and free from structural damage and mold growth.