The installation of a drain tile system does require a little surgery. In most cases, we would use an electric jackhammer for our cutting. We find that it creates less dust than a concrete saw and leaves a rough edge for the later concrete patch to bind into. We keep a high velocity exhaust hose next to the tool as we work. Although there will be some dust, in most cases our customers are surprised by how little. We then excavate a trench to the base of the footing. The resulting dirt and concrete debris, will be hauled out and disposed of.
A four-inch (HDPE) "drain tile" pipe, perforated with drainage slits, is then placed in the trench. The drain tile is surrounded with an aggregate filter bed, which allows water in, while filtering out the surrounding soil.
We then install a drainage panel, made from the same material as the drain tile, against the foundation wall. Raised studs on one side of the panel, provide a "sweat gap" between the wall and the basement floor. This gap extends down into the aggregate filter bed. Any water that may seep through the base of the foundation is channeled down through the aggregate and then into the drain tile. The drain tile will also intercept rising ground water.
The installed drain tile will lead to a sump basin and pump system which will collect any water seepage and expel it . Many times there is an existing sump basin and pump. If they are well installed, we may be able to utilize them. If we're installing a sump and pump, we would suggest a quality cast iron submersible. This would be plumbed with a 1.25 inch PVC discharge pipe on the interior and a barbed fitting for a flexible hose on the exterior. However, we are more than happy to install any pump with any configuration you would like, so long as it in keeping with any local ordinances.
Sub-Slab Depressurization
Sub-Slab Depressurization
Sub-slab Depressurization is a method to reduce soil gas entry into a basement.
By sealing the drain tile system and applying a slight vacuum with a specialized fan, we can create a negative pressure beneath the basement floor. This can dramatically reduce water vapor and soil gas intrusion. It may even completely eliminate the need for dehumidifiers. If there is a radon issue, it can reduce radon levels by up to 99%. Sub-slab depressurization Is highly effective when added to a drain tile system. See Radon Mitigation
Note: Whether installing along with a drain tile system or as a retro-fit on an existing system we will never simply glue a sump lid shut with silicone to seal up a system as many others may do. We will always use a gasket-ed lid that can easily be removed and replaced by the homeowner when excess to the sump pump is necessary.