Internal drain tile systems are effective water removal solutions for properties with high groundwater levels. They work by directing groundwater through pipes and carrying it to a sump pump, which then expels the water out of the home through a discharge pipe. This prevents hydrostatic pressure from building up by collecting excess moisture in the ground under the house and releasing it away from the foundation via a sump.
There are two main types of drain tile systems: interior and exterior. The interior drain tile system captures floor and wall seepage without requiring the removal of finished walls to fully waterproof. It also relieves hydrostatic pressure and prevents concrete wall seepage.
Excess water in the soil will either drain away from the foundation via gravity or into the sump pit, which is then expelled by a sump pump. Both interior and exterior drain tile systems are highly effective basement waterproofing solutions, but they are also a lot of work.
Interior drain tile is the Swiss army knife of basement waterproofing systems, as it can solve a wide range of basement seepage issues and has specific benefits. It stops water from coming in across the floor and seepage, does not stop the musty basement smell, and helps prevent cracks from forming.
In addition to its effectiveness, interior drain tile systems are less impacted by the elements and require perforation or narrow openings built into them. This allows water to flow into the drainage system, capturing rising groundwater, relieves hydrostatic pressure, and prevents concrete wall seepage. Schedule a free inspection to determine the best option for your basement’s waterproofing needs.
📹 Basement interior drain systems – what you need to know before spending your $$$
These systems are super-popular and the sales people make them sound like the best way to deal with your water intrusion …
How long does weeping tile last?
Weeping tiles, installed correctly, can protect your home and basement from water damage, mold, and mildew, while maintaining exterior beauty. They are also a standard part of basement waterproofing systems, but they differ in their placement and output. French drains are exterior weeping tiles, installed on the ground level just below the surface. They redirect underground water to a septic tank or drain area, keeping your property flood-free.
They also drain melting snow and rainwater runoff away from your property, ensuring a higher resale value. Both weeping tiles and French drains are essential for basement waterproofing systems, but their placement and output differ.
What is the difference between drain tile and weeping tile?
French drains and weeping tiles are often used interchangeably, but they have slight differences. A French drain is installed below the surface to prevent soil over-saturation, while a weeping tile is designed to protect a structure against hydrostatic pressure. Both terms are accepted as the same type of drainage system, and they work under the same principles. Gravity causes water to flow downhill and follow the path of least resistance, allowing the drain to manage soil moisture.
Weeping tiles are deeper in the ground, often used to protect the foundation of a structure. Both terms are accepted as the same type of drainage system, and people will know what they are talking about.
How to clean out interior drain tile?
To clean a drain tile, use a drain cleaner, trigger gun, and sewer jetter to guide the nozzle into the drain tile opening. Squeeze the trigger and pull back every few feet for more thorough cleaning. Once done, release the trigger to stop water flow before the nozzle reaches the drain opening. Replace any drain cover and watch a 3 minute video for more details.
Recommend a company with similar services from family, friends, and co-workers. If unable to find a good recommendation, search local directories like Google Maps, Yelp, and CitySearch for waterproofing service companies with good online reviews. Trust reviews from individuals who have published few other reviews or give only positive reviews to everyone. Look for a company with several positive reviews about services similar to yours.
After finding a good-reputation company, search online for the company name and individuals, considering both positive and negative information. Be aware that good service companies may have a backlog during peak times, such as low temperatures, heavy rainfall, or holidays, which may indicate a strong demand for repeat customers.
What is the problem with tile drainage?
Tile can break down due to old age and cumulative loading, especially older tile not designed for heavy equipment and axle loads. Improper installation can lead to drainage failure, freeze-thaw cycles, and in-line tile problems, such as in-line siltation. Unstable soils can erode into the tile line, and installing fabric or filter socks on perforated tile may prevent sediment entry. Nearly level grades can also cause sediment to settle out and fill the line.
For drainage systems with terraces, ensure every terrace drains completely within 2 days after normal rainfall. If water stands too long, check for a plugged inlet or outlet. If no obstruction is found, hire a contractor to resolve the problem.
Leave a small buffer strip around tile standpipes and inlets to settle sediment before it enters the tile. Clear inlets with crop residue and ensure vegetation around standpipes is free of weeds, trees, and brush. Check intakes for machinery or livestock damage, repair or replace broken or bent intakes, paint inlets, use warning flags, and erect a temporary fence to keep livestock away.
How effective are drain tiles?
Drain tile is a system of subterranean drainage pipes used in the construction industry to manage water levels in basements. It is a crucial component in preventing water leaks and floods, but its success relies on proper installation and maintenance. The origins of drain tile can be traced back to ancient times, but it has evolved into a popular choice in the construction industry. The type of drain tile depends on the location and purpose of the system.
Is interior drain tile worth it?
Interior drain tile represents a comprehensive solution for residential waterproofing, effectively capturing rising groundwater, reducing hydrostatic pressure, and preventing concrete wall seepage. The installation process is expeditious and straightforward, and the product is designed to withstand inclement weather, obviating the necessity for exterior excavation. The installation of interior drain tile can be performed at any time of year, which makes it a more economical choice than exterior waterproofing, which is a more labor-intensive process.
Do drain tiles get clogged?
Interior drain tiles may become obstructed with sediment or debris over time. The unclogging process may be accomplished through the flushing of the affected area with water, the use of a plumber’s snake, or the excavation and replacement of damaged sections. It is recommended that inspections and cleaning be conducted on a regular basis, at intervals of one to two years, to ensure optimal functionality.
Does drain tile get clogged?
Drain tile can become clogged or broken due to various factors, including sediment build-up, tree roots growing into piping, and compacting of original material used to create sloping under drain tiles. This can result in water and sediment pooling around the piping. If you suspect your drain tile system is clogged or broken, it’s crucial to have an expert assess the damage immediately. A camera device will be used to run through your drainage lines to identify the affected area. If the issue is isolated, a new drain tile system can be retrofitted to the affected area to fix the problem.
How long does a drain tile system last?
Drain tile systems can last for over 30 years and require minimal management. Proper installation ensures a problem-free basement for a long time. However, occasional cleanouts are necessary to prevent sediment buildup. SafeBasements offers a warranty on their drain tile systems, using SafeEdge rubber-sealing technology to keep vapors, radon, and moisture out. The interior drain tile system comes with a lifetime transferable warranty. Drain tile works in any season to redirect water away from the home’s foundation and into a drainage system leading to a sump pump. Installation is best during winter months.
Does interior weeping tile work?
An interior weeping tile system is a cost-effective and highly effective basement waterproofing method that is used primarily for waterproofing concrete block or cinder block foundation walls. This system is often used by large companies to address foundation waterproofing problems due to the destructiveness of foundation excavation. It provides drainage for water that flows into and pools within the foundation walls, is effective in dealing with high water tables under the floor slab, and leaks through foundation cracks.
Installing an interior perimeter weeping tile system beneath the basement floor eliminates the need for digging outside the home. This system drains water at the foundation’s footing, preventing water from leaking or seeping from the concrete blocks onto or beneath the basement floor. By draining cinderblocks and evacuating ground water, the interior weeping tile system extends the useful life of the concrete block foundation, which deteriorates over time due to the saturation of the blocks from pooled water. Properly installed, an interior weeping tile system will keep your basement dry for the life of your home.
Do tile insert drains work well?
Tile insert drains are a popular choice for bathroom renovations due to their sleek and seamless appearance and excellent hidden drainage. Available in traditional/point and linear styles, they allow floor tile to continue over the hidden drain. However, they lack storage due to the lack of a vanity, but a mirrored cabinet can be installed above. Traditional/point drains need to be installed in the center of the floor, while linear drains offer greater flexibility.
During installation, essential factors like drain height, floor sloping, alignment, connection to drainage pipes, and waterproofing and sealing must be considered. For like-for-like swaps, exact measurements must be taken to ensure the new drain fits into the existing layout and is Australian Standard-approved. Drainage in the bathroom floor should be decided at the start of the renovation, as it can lead to problems later. It is recommended to consult a reputable tradesperson to ensure the plumbing setup is fit for purpose.
📹 How We Do It: Interior Drain Tile System
What is an interior drain tile system? An interior drain tile system manages water entering your home’s foundation or crawl space.
Great article! Looking through options for dealing with water issues in the basement of our 100-yr-old house. You mentioned this is a “partial” drain tile system. Is it worth installing a drain website along only one wall in a basement, if that’s the area where the water seems to be coming in, or does the drain system really only work effectively if it covers the full perimeter of the basement? Want added protection over here but am having a hard time accepting the costs associated with a full perimeter system (plus wall stabilization, etc., not to mention costs of restoring basement to previous finished state!).
I’ve seen a lot of diagrams with the gravel starting at the lowest point of the footing, the perforated drain pipe and gravel on top of that. My footing is only 6″ thick. Would it be detrimental to dig below (not underneath the footing) a few inches so I can get a few inches of gravel below the footing? My guess is no because the sump basin is more than a foot below the footing.
Thanks for the article! I have a few questions if you don’t mind. 1) Does the sump basin have a hole cut into it already and you just connected the drain pipe to that? 2) how much of a gap should I leave between the foundation and the new cement and how did you maintain that gap when finishing the new cement? 3) how deep does the drainage pipe outside need to be and what size pvc would you recommend? Thank you!!!