If you have experience with construction or landscaping projects, you may be familiar with what a drain tile is. However, you may not have a deeper understanding of what purpose they serve or how they are installed. This blog post will give you an in-depth look at these pipe systems so that you can understand exactly what they are and when they should be used.

What Is a Drain Tile?

Drain tiles are pipe systems that are installed underground to help drain excess water away from a property or structure. They are called "tiles" because they were historically made from clay tiles. Nowadays, they are usually made from plastic piping. These systems serve the important purpose of keeping soil around a building's foundation or other areas from becoming saturated. Ultimately, they help prevent standing water and flooding.

When Are They Necessary?

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, artificial drainage increased the value of agricultural land to 30.3% in the worst-drained counties of the eastern U.S. There are a few key situations when installing a drain tile system is highly recommended. Wet basements or crawl spaces can benefit from having these systems around the exterior of foundation walls to pull water away and prevent moisture penetration. This is vital for avoiding mold growth and damage. These pipe systems are also useful for poorly draining areas of the landscape that collect water easily after storms. The tiles underneath help soak up excess moisture. Additionally, they give you better control over irrigation water dispersal when installed systematically under gardens or turf.

What’s the Installation Process Like?

Installing this pipe system properly requires some excavation work upfront. Per our experts, a trench at least a foot wide and a foot or two deep is dug around the building foundation or an area that needs drainage. The piping is laid into the trench in the necessary pattern. Then, gravel backfill is shoveled around the piping and the trench is covered with soil. The tiles then connect to downspouts, French drains, or sump pumps to fully transport the water away from the site. Get in touch with a team of professionals experienced with handling drain tile system installations to have this done properly.

Now that you know just how effective these drain systems can be, you may want to have them installed around your home. Call Landmark Companies today and let us evaluate your home and find the best artificial drainage system for your needs.