Drain tile is one of the most important parts of any building's construction. If a building has a basement, a drainage tile system will keep the basement free of water. If a building is built on a slab, drain tiles will keep water from pooling underneath the slab.
Whether your project involves new construction or a drain tile replacement in an existing building, you'll want to be sure the drain tile installation is done properly. Because drain tile is buried beneath the ground and costly to repair, it is a job you want to get done right the first time. Before you start this kind of work, ask yourself the following:
1. Are you confident in your ability to install drain tile yourself?
2. Would you prefer to have a professional install the drain tile at your site?
3. Do you need drain tile repaired or replaced?
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Learn how to install drain tile
If you have experienced builders on your staff, it is possible to install drain tile with minimal outside help. Detailed instructions are available from online experts.
I recommend: Tim Carter provides detailed directions on installing drain tile on his website,
Ask the Builder. Additionally, Tim will answer any questions you have if you post them in the comment box at the end of the directions.
Easy Digging is another source of instructions on how to install drain tile. The website is useful for its detailed diagrams.
Hire a professional to handle drain tile installation
Installing drain tile can be a tricky job, so you might be more comfortable hiring a professional company to do the work for you. A number of companies across the country offer several different methods of drain tile installation.
I recommend: Interior Channel is a basement waterproofing company that specializes in installing drain tiles in existing homes and businesses.
Resch Enterprises is a family-owned company that's been in business for more than 40 years.
Repair or replace drain tile
If your building has a water problem in the basement, chances are you need to repair or replace your drainage tiles. This can be a costly undertaking, involving digging around the foundation, but if you have staff experienced in construction, it is a project that can be done with minimal outside assistance.
I recommend: EHow provides detailed, step-by-step directions on how to repair drain tile. The website provides helpful tips and a list of items you'll need to complete the job. When the time comes to buy materials,
Sandkuhl Clay Works is one of the country's leading manufacturers of traditional clay drain tile. The company sells a variety of clay drainage tile and fittings.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Corrugated drain tile pipe is inexpensive and comes in long lengths, but it has the disadvantages of collapsing easily and being difficult to clean. PVC piping is a popular alternative for drain tile piping, but other builders prefer traditional clay drain tile.
The official source of Drain Tile is the Drain Tile page at Business.com
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