What Is a Catch Basin and Do I Need One?

If you’re a homeowner, then you know looking after your property inside and out is essential. Caring for your home often involves going beyond the obvious–looking at the unseen elements such as drainage systems and catch basins. But what is a catch basin, exactly? Do you need one on your property? Even if you understand why these features are helpful, it can be daunting to grapple with their complexities. This blog post will provide an overview of what catch basins are, why they’re helpful, and how homeowners can evaluate whether or not they need one.

What Is a Catch Basin?

A catch basin is a structure designed to collect and hold rainwater and other precipitation runoff from paved surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and sidewalks. These structures are typically made of concrete or metal and are built into the ground, with the top of the basin being level with the surrounding surface.Runoff is collected in the catch basin through a grating or inlet pipe and carried away via a series of pipes or channels, eventually flowing into a nearby waterway like a river or lake. The purpose of a catch basin is to prevent flooding and erosion caused by excess runoff and reduce the amount of pollutants entering our waterways.Catch basins require regular maintenance to function correctly. They must be cleaned periodically to remove debris and sediment accumulating over time, as these can cause blockages and hinder water flow. Failure to properly maintain catch basins can lead to localized flooding, erosion, and water quality issues.In addition to their functional purposes, catch basins can be equipped with artistic grates or decorative covers, making them functional and aesthetically pleasing. Some cities even feature public art installations on their catch basin covers, turning what might otherwise be a mundane piece of infrastructure into a work of art.

How Does a Catch Basin Work?

The catch basin works by utilizing gravity as water flows down from higher elevations into the basin’s opening, which is connected to a network of pipes and other drainage components. The basin’s structure involves an underground chamber with a grated inlet to prevent debris from entering the system and allow water to flow through. The water then enters the basin, where it is temporarily stored.

Over time, pollutants such as dirt, leaves, and sand settle at the bottom of the basin. To prevent blockages from interfering with the water diversion process, the basin’s sump and the pipes must be regularly cleaned–commonly using vacuum trucks. The grate at the top of the catch basin is also cleaned and inspected to ensure it is free from debris and not damaged.In situations where the volume of water exceeds the catch basin’s capacity, the overflow system kicks in, where excess water is diverted through an alternative outlet–mainly another drainage system. This prevents water from spilling over the surface and causing localized flooding.

Pros and Cons of a Catch Basin

Pros

One of the most significant advantages of a catch basin is its ability to effectively collect and contain large volumes of stormwater runoff. This helps to prevent flooding, erosion, and other costly water damage issues.Another significant benefit of catch basins is that they are relatively easy and inexpensive to install. Additionally, maintenance of a catch basin is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove debris and blockages.Catch basins are also environmentally friendly. During filtration, the soil in the basin acts as a natural filter, removing pollutants and impurities from the water before it flows into nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. This helps to improve water quality and protect the ecosystem.Furthermore, catch basins are known for their excellent durability and longevity. Proper maintenance of high-quality catch basins can last up to 50 years, making them a cost-effective solution for any drainage system.

Cons

While catch basins are essential to stormwater management systems, they also come with some drawbacks. One of the most significant cons of a catch basin is that it can become clogged with debris over time, impeding water flow through the system and ultimately leading to flooding.Another disadvantage of catch basins is that they require regular maintenance to keep them functioning correctly. This can be time-consuming and costly, especially in areas with a high volume of stormwater runoff.Moreover, catch basins are not always effective in capturing pollutants and contaminants that stormwater may carry. Some of these pollutants can create environmental issues downstream, affecting water quality in rivers, streams, and other bodies of water.

Signs That You Might Need a Catch Basin

One of the most apparent indicators that you might need a catch basin is standing water on your property after rainfall. This can indicate a lack of proper drainage, leading to problems like soil erosion, flooding, or even property damage. Additionally, if you have noticed that water is pooling around your home’s foundation, it may be a sign that a catch basin is needed to prevent water from accumulating and causing structural damage.A soggy or swampy lawn is another sign that you might need a catch basin. This can happen when water is not draining correctly, and the excess moisture can lead to plants or grass dying off. Furthermore, if you notice that water is pouring into the street or onto other properties, it may be a sign that a catch basin is needed to divert water to the appropriate drainage system.

What’s the Difference Between a Catch Basin and a French Drain?

When it comes to managing water runoff around your property, you have a few options–two of which are catch basins and French drains. While some people may use these terms interchangeably, they are two different systems with distinct functions and designs.A catch basin is a rectangular or circular basin that collects surface water and directs it into a drainage pipe or channel. Typically made of concrete or plastic, a catch basin is commonly seen in parking lots, roadways, and other high-traffic areas. It features a grate on top to prevent debris and large objects from entering the drain, and can be connected to a larger stormwater management system.On the other hand, a French drain is a sloped trench filled with stones and gravel that directs water away from a specific area. It’s designed to collect water underground and channel it to a designated outlet, such as a gutter or a dry well. The trench is typically lined with a permeable fabric that prevents soil and dirt from clogging the drainage system. French drains are commonly installed around foundations, along retaining walls, or in areas that experience heavy rainfall.

Do I Need More Than One Catch Basin?

Having only one catch basin may not be sufficient to handle large amounts of water, particularly during heavy rainfall. If your property has a large surface area, then installing additional catch basins strategically to capture and manage water flow effectively may be prudent. Furthermore, installing additional catch basins can help prevent clogging or backups in the system, ensuring that water can flow freely and be directed away from your property as intended.It’s essential to remember that the number of catch basins needed will depend on the size of your property and the amount of rainfall you typically receive in your area. Consulting with a drainage specialist can help you determine the most effective placement and number of catch basins needed to keep your property dry and free from water damage.

How to Clean Your Catch Basin

The best way to clean a catch basin involves several steps:

1. First, it is important to identify any potential hazards or pollutants that might have accumulated within the catch basin. These could include sediment, debris, oil or grease, and other substances that may contaminate the surrounding environment and cause harm to the catch basin’s ecosystem. Once these hazards have been identified, a proper cleaning plan can be developed.
2. The next step involves removing any large pieces of debris or sediment that might be present in the catch basin. This can be done using a scoop or other specialized cleaning tool, and is an essential step in preparing the catch basin for a more thorough cleaning.
3. Once the larger debris has been removed, it is vital to use a high-pressure jet to clean the inside of the catch basin. This will help remove any remaining dirt or sediment stuck to the sides or bottom of it. The jet may also remove any oil or grease accumulated within the catch basin over time.
4. After the basin has been thoroughly cleaned, it is essential to inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. This can include cracks or holes in the basin’s structure, indicating more serious issues that require further attention.
5. Finally, it is important to dispose of any waste or debris that has been removed from the catch basin in a safe and eco-friendly manner. This will help minimize the impact of the cleaning process on the surrounding environment and ensure that the catch basin remains an effective and efficient means of managing stormwater and other wastewater.

If you’re concerned about drainage on your property, contact us today to schedule an evaluation and receive a free estimate. We serve areas in four states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri.