Effective Drainage Solutions for Commercial Landscape Projects

Commercial landscaping consists of more than just creating an inviting, aesthetic space. Other considerations should include environmental impact, municipal aesthetics or standards, safety and maintenance. An important aspect is ensuring efficient drainage solutions are installed to prevent ponding or flooding that may cause damage.

Extreme rainfall can instantly destroy landscaping if water isnt effectively diverted from the area. Without adequate drainage solutions, water runoff will not be drained – potentially leading to erosion or even weakening pavements. Stormwater that pools at building foundations can cause costly, long term damage.

Poor quality soil can mean water will not penetrate, and sit on top of soil and grass. Compacted soil requires core aeration to help break up the compacted soil, making it easier for water to percolate into the soil. This should be considered as a seasonal maintenance drainage solution.

Permeable pavements are made from materials that allow water to soak into the surface. A similar alternative is to choose pavings that have gaps in between. With both of these options, water can drain directly into the ground.

There are a wide variety of options when it comes to materials and colours. This can make it very easy to incorporate into different styles of landscapes.

It is important to note that this option requires redoing the entire driveway surface, which can be a significant undertaking. Also, the amount of water that can be drained may be limited by the permeability of the surface and ground.

Drainage pipes and gullies collect water into a drain that is installed on the surface. Pipes then funnel the excess water away. These pipes can lead to a storm drain or other parts of the property, such as a pond, where the water will be released.

Instead of flowing onto pavements or grass, water flows into the swale where it can be channelled away. You can customise the swale to match the landscape and even add some greenery around it. However, swales take up a lot of space and may not be suitable for every space.

An efficient solution for commercial landscape drainage is a slot drain system. A slot drain is a type of linear drainage system characterised by its narrow, discreet opening that runs along the surface. Unlike trench drains, slot drains do not have a grated cover; instead they have a slim, elongated slot that allows water to enter the drainage channel below. This design makes slot drains nearly invisible and less obtrusive.

Slot drains are a safe, sanitary solution that can withstand extreme temperatures, and has resistance to chemical corrosion. Without grates to clean or replace, slot drains require less frequent maintenance.

Trench drains are a common efficient drainage solution for commercial landscapes. This system typically consists of a long, narrow trench with a grated cover which allows water to flow into the trench whilst keeping debris out. The trench itself can be made out of various materials including polypropylene, concrete or stainless steel. Trench drains function by providing a pathway for water to flow along the surface and into the trench, where it is then directed to an underground drainage system or storm sewer. Grates covering the trench are available in different materials and designs, including cast iron, galvanised steel, polypropylene or even decorative stone; each suited for various load requirements or aesthetic preferences.

Adequate drainage is key to protect your landscape design, as well as the financial investment in the landscaping. Consider options, your own preferences and make a choice based on what will work for all aspects.