Driveway Drainage Pipe
Installing a drain pipe under a driveway is important in preventing water damage to your property and ensuring proper drainage. Without proper drainage, standing water can damage your driveway, create a breeding ground for insects, and even seep into your home’s foundation.
In this topic, we will discuss the various factors to consider when installing a drain pipe under a driveway, including the depth of the pipe, the type of pipe to use, and the installation process.
What Is A Driveway Drainage Pipe?
A driveway culvert or drainage pipe runs horizontally underneath the driveway and ends in a draining ditch, often under a channel or trench drain.
This pipe carries water from nearby yards and roads to the draining point, eventually reaching the soil.
What Kinds Of Drainage Pipes Are Available?
1. Metals
Metal pipes are a reliable and durable option for drainage systems. They are less likely to collapse or crack under heavy weight, making them suitable for driveways. Additionally, they are resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance. Examples are:
- Copper
Copper is a popular choice due to its low corrosiveness and ease of installation. It does not require wrapping and can withstand direct contact with soil and rocks. Copper pipes come in different diameters, catering to various drainage needs.
- Cast iron
On the other hand, cast iron is a strong and durable material that used to be the go-to choice for outdoor drainage.
Though plastic pipes have replaced it, many homeowners are now returning to it for its robustness in handling heavy traffic areas. However, it is vulnerable to corrosion and may need frequent maintenance.
2. Plastic
Plastic is a perfect choice when it comes to drainage pipes! It is a lightweight, long-lasting, cost-effective, and easy-to-install material. There are numerous types of plastic pipes that you can choose from, including:
- PVC
PVC drainage pipes are popular for indoor and outdoor drainage systems in homes and businesses. They are particularly well-suited for use under driveways due to their durability and ease of maintenance.
PVC pipes are made of synthetic plastic polymers known for their rigidity and resistance to weather and debris. These qualities make them ideal for withstanding the harsh conditions of outdoor drainage systems.
Many options are available when choosing a PVC drainage pipe for your driveway project. PVC pipes come in various sizes, so selecting the right size for your needs is important. Some common types of PVC drainage pipes include:
- PVC-U pipes
PVC-U pipes are made of unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, a strong and durable material that contains no plastic. They are commonly used in drainage systems and come in various sizes and lengths.
Thanks to their push-fit joints, PVC-U pipes are easy to install and are known for their rigidity and longevity, making them an ideal choice for driveway applications. Moreover, PVC-U pipes are resistant to corrosion and do not rust or rot, ensuring
long-lasting performance.
- C-PVC pipes
C-PVC pipes, on the other hand, are made of chlorinated PVC and are also suitable for driveway installations.
They are strong, durable, and can be used for above and below-ground applications. Compared to other types of PVC, C-PVC is less prone to leaking and offers excellent impact, corrosion resistance, durability, and reliability.
- PVC-O pipes
PVC-O is a tough and rigid pipe resistant to various chemicals and abrasions. It can withstand high pressure and is suitable for sewerage and stormwater applications.
PVC-O pipes are lightweight, easy to install, and have improved performance and durability compared to PVC-C pipes. They are particularly well-suited for heavy-duty driveway applications, such as withstanding the weight of automobiles.
3. Polythene
Polyethene is a type of plastic that is flexible, unlike rigid PVC. It is an excellent choice if your project involves many twists and turns. Polyethene is a durable material that has a long lifespan.
It is available in various diameters and thicknesses, making it adaptable to your needs. Additionally, it is easy to install and does not require specialized tools or equipment.
4. Concrete
Concrete pipes are known for their durability, strength, and leak-proof performance. These heavy-duty pipes are typically used for industrial drainage or plumbing applications that require robust construction.
Concrete pipes are sometimes used to encase more fragile pipes for added protection. Due to their exceptional load-bearing capacity, concrete pipes are an excellent choice for driveways subjected to heavy vehicular traffic. Furthermore, they are relatively cost-effective and straightforward to install.
5. Clay
The prevalent soil type worldwide, clay, is composed of small rock and mineral particles and exhibits excellent absorbency, making it an optimal choice for drainage purposes. Clay pipes come in diverse sizes and can be joined using couplings.
Additionally, they are highly resilient and can endure for an extended period. Nevertheless, they are prone to root intrusion, and tree roots penetrating the pipes may necessitate their replacement.
Which Types Of Drainage Pipes Are Suitable To Be Installed Beneath A Driveway?
Under driveways, four main types of drainage pipes are available for use: corrugated, perforated, smooth wall, and French drain. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when making a choice.
1. Perforated Drain Pipe
The perforated drain pipe is the most commonly used under driveways. Small holes allow water to seep through and drain away from the driveway. These pipes are typically made of plastic or concrete and come in various sizes.
While it is very effective at draining water away from the driveway, the downside is that the holes can become clogged with debris over time, reducing efficiency.
2. Single Wall Corrugated Pipes
Single-wall corrugated pipes are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with a smooth interior and a corrugated exterior.
The grooves provide the pipe with strength and stiffness. HDPE pipes are durable, flexible, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and chemical attack. Their smooth interior allows for excellent flow characteristics and the ability to handle heavy loads.
3. Dual Wall Corrugated Pipes
Dual wall corrugated pipes are made of two layers of HDPE fused, with a corrugated outer layer providing structural strength and a smooth inner wall allowing maximum flow capacity.
Different types of dual-wall corrugated pipes are available on the market, so it is crucial to know your specific needs before purchasing.
4. Smooth Wall Pipes
Smooth wall pipes are common and used under driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, and in agricultural applications. Their slick surface allows water to flow through easily, and they come in different diameters and lengths.
5. French Drain
A French drain is a drainage system consisting of a perforated pipe wrapped in gravel, which helps keep the soil in place and prevent clogging.
It is relatively easy to install and can be used with other drainage systems, such as a sump pump. However, they can be susceptible to clogging if not maintained properly.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Drainage Pipe For Beneath Your Driveway
After determining which type of drainage pipe is suitable for your driveway, several factors must be considered. You cannot simply select a pipe based on our recommendations and expect optimal performance.
It’s important to consider your vehicle’s weight, expected water volume, and temperature changes.
Temperature Changes:
Extreme temperatures can affect drainage pipe performance. PVC pipes may not hold up well in sub-zero temperatures, making perforated pipes with small holes a better option. It’s important to consider your area’s temperature changes and select a pipe accordingly.
Amount Of Drainage Water:
The volume of water the drainage pipe needs to handle will also determine which pipe to choose, its size, and its diameter. Areas with frequent heavy rain or flooding require pipes that can handle high water volumes.
Weight Of Your Vehicle:
Since the drainage pipe will be under your driveway, it must withstand the weight of your vehicle. Consider the weight-bearing capacity of the material, as vehicles can range from 2500 to 4500 pounds. Choose a material that can support the weight for years to avoid costly replacements.
Cost:
Budget is an important factor to consider, as different types of pipes vary in price. Choose a pipe that fits within your budget.
How To Install Drainage Pipe Under A Driveway.
You will need a few materials to complete this task, including a shovel, trench digging machine, driveway drainage pipe, gravel, and a drain grate. The installation process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Plan and Measure
The first step is to outline and measure the driveway culvert draining plan. It would be best if you used a measuring tape to determine the correct depth and length of the pipe, ensuring that it is not too close to the home foundation or road and is not visible above the ground.
Step 2: Create the Trench
Once you have determined the trench’s depth and length, you can start digging it out. For smaller driveways with creek and gravel, a shovel can be used. However, a trench-digging machine may be required for longer and deeper trenches.
If you do not have a trench-digging machine, you can hire a plumber or construction worker to dig the trench. Make sure to smooth out the trench surface to make it easier for the draining pipe to sit in, and remove any objects that may damage the pipe inside the drainage.
Step 3: Install the Pipe
After you have prepared the trench, you can lay the draining pipe at a slight angle. This angle will allow the pipe to drain naturally without working against gravity.
We suggest using PVC or perforated drainage systems for shorter drainage systems, while longer systems may require concrete drainage. Install debris filters on both sides of the pipe to prevent clogs and protect the pipe.
Once the pipe is in place, apply gravel around it to improve drainage and protect the pipe. Finally, rebury the pipe using dirt and cover the driveway surface with asphalt or gravel.
FAQs
When Will It Be Appropriate To Use Perforated Pipe For Drainage?
The primary function of a perforated drain pipe is to facilitate the drainage of excess water from outdoor areas of your home, ensuring that it remains dry and hygienic.
It enhances drainage and minimizes the risk of standing groundwater, thus making property maintenance more convenient.
If you live in a location that experiences frequent rainfall, consider installing perforated drain pipes beneath your driveway to facilitate the easy removal of excess water.
However, it’s worth noting that perforated pipes require more extensive maintenance and can be challenging to clean and unclog. Nonetheless, they are affordable and can be easily replaced if necessary.
What Is The Ideal Depth To Bury A Drain Pipe Under A Driveway?
To prevent freezing or damage from vehicles, it’s recommended to bury your drain pipe at least four feet deep. You may need to bury it even deeper in areas with a high water table.
Before digging, contact your local utility companies to mark any underground lines. When digging the trench, ensure it’s wide enough for the drain pipe and any surrounding material.
If installing a new driveway, dig the trench before pouring the concrete, with the trench depth depending on the type of pipe used. Once the trench is dug, install the drain pipe, backfill it with material, and compact it around the pipe for security.
Afterward, finish the driveway installation. Ensure you check for any special requirements in your area by consulting with the local building department.
What Type Of Pvc Pipe Is Most Suitable For Underground Drainage?
Choosing the right PVC pipe for underground drainage can be challenging due to the various available options. To ensure you make the right choice, consider the following factors:
Select a pipe with the appropriate diameter that can handle the expected water volume to be drained. The durability of the pipe is dependent on the thickness of its walls. The type of PVC material used in manufacturing the pipe will also influence its durability.
Can Pvc Be Considered Superior To Corrugated Pipe?
PVC pipe is typically cheaper than corrugated pipe and also easier to install. Nevertheless, corrugated pipe offers more durability than PVC.
Therefore, the better option will depend on your specific needs. The corrugated pipe is the way to go if you require a robust pipe that can endure significant wear and tear. On the other hand, if you want an affordable and easily installed pipe, PVC would be the better choice.
Conclusion
Installing a drain pipe under your driveway can help prevent water from pooling and causing damage to your property. Installing a drain pipe requires careful planning, digging a trench, and selecting the appropriate type.
While several types of pipes are available, the choice between PVC and corrugated pipes depends on the level of durability and ease of installation you require.
However, burying the pipe deep enough is essential to avoid freezing or damage from vehicles driving over it. Following the necessary precautions, you can install a drain pipe under your driveway to maintain a dry and clean outdoor space.