Archive for the ‘French Drain Help’ Category

Where is the Water coming from? Identify the water sources

Posted: April 3, 2026 in DIY French Drain, french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Installation
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Where is the Water coming from? Identify the water sources

Water may move into your Problem Area in many ways.  It may also come from multiple sources.

Once you have determined your Problem Drainage Area, the next step is to find out where it is coming from.

Here are some common water sources.

Water running downhill over the surface toward your home or business happens all the time.  It is definitely the most common water source.

Once it finds a low area it begins to build up.  This is called, ” Ponding.”

Ground Water

It can also run downhill underground.  This is also very common, but people don’t think about it because they don’t see it.  To detect Sub-Surface Ground Water a hole must be dug.  Water will start to appear in the hole over time.  Sometimes it is moving fast and appears immediately.  Usually, it moves more slowly and may take hours or days to collect in the hole.

Once we dug deep enough the ground water appeared immediately in the picture above.

If you live in a neighborhood where the houses are close together, water may be coming from your neighbor’s gutter downspouts and becomes trapped between houses.  Or it comes from your own gutters or both.  If there are no gutters even more water can be trapped between houses.

Erosion Problems

This can cause all kinds of Erosion Problems and Foundation Issues.

For Oklahoma Drainage, A French Drain installed between houses is the most common work we do.

There are many different ways for water to get into a Problem Drainage Area.

Digging holes to test for ground water is always a good idea as previously mentioned.

Try to watch surface water flowing toward the problem area as much as possible.  This might mean standing in the rain.  I have even done this in the dark with a light.

French Drain Answers are a Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We installed our first French Drain and completed our first Sprinkler Repair in Norman in 1993.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair — Installing – French Drains – Surface Drains – Channel Drains – Sump Pumps.

We also install Sod and Provide Dirt work for Lawn Leveling.

Providing Expert Sprinkler Repair – Broken Sprinkler Pipes – Sprinkler Head Adjustment – Sprinkler Valve Replacement

We provide Service for Folks in: Norman, Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Moore.

Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.  

                                                           (405) 203-9419

French Drain Help

Posted: November 5, 2025 in french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Installation
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French Drain Help is a central focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We have installed many French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains and Sump Pumps there.

French Drain Installation is what we do!  OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE has been installing Drainage Systems in Central Oklahoma for over 30 years.  We solve all types of Drainage Problems for residential and commercial customers.

Oklahoma Drainage — Installing – French Drains – Surface Drains – Channel Drains – Sump Pumps

Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.

Colored Gravel for a French Drain

French Drain Installation

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair has been diagnosing and solving Drainage Problems since 1993.  Water has the ability to get into places around your home where you really don’t want it to be.

Some drainage problems are easy to solve.  Typically, water enters the problem drainage area one way from one source.  The really tricky drainage problems occur when water enters the problem drainage area from multiple directions and from multiple sources.  Sometimes a secondary water source can’t be seen or identified until the primary water problem source is eliminated.

An example of this occurs when water is running into a problem area in an obvious way over the ground where you can see it.

Simple enough.

Drainage System

A drainage system is installed with a surface drain as the “intake” with drainage pipe running to an exit point.  Initially the water drains away and everything looks great.

The next day water is back and is all around the surface drain, but below the edge and it hasn’t rained at all, so no additional water ran over the surface of the ground to flood the area.

The primary water source was solved, (The surface water run off) but the secondary water source was not.  Which was sub-surface water, (ground water) running into the area.

A surface drain can’t drain “ground water.”  A French Drain should have initially been installed instead of a Surface Drain.  A French Drain can drain both Surface Water and Ground Water.

 

walk way drain

French Drain Under Walkway

Recent Installation

Oklahoma Drainage recently installed a French Drain along the edge and under a Steppingstone walkway.  The Work took place In Choctaw East of Choctaw Road.

Every time it rained, our customer had water standing on the walkway between the pool and the house.  Not only would the water stand there but it stayed there a long time.

To solve the problem, we took apart the walkway and dug a trench about 18 inches deep along the East side of the walkway.

Next, we put a trench liner in the trench which is white and maintains the integrity of the drainage trench.  It allows water to pass through it but keeps sand and debris out of the perforated French Drainpipe.

The French Drainpipe itself also has a neo preen soc and the perforated pipe as well.  This gives the French Drainpipe two levels of protections from sand and dirt getting into the pipe. This should provide additional French Drain Help.

clogged French Drain Pipe

result of French Drain Installed Incorrectly without a liner of filter

Solid Drainpipe

Next, we connected a solid drainpipe to the French Drain.  It ran from the center of the French Drain perpendicularly across the walkway, down the hill 70 feet to the pop-up emitter.

When digging the trench for the Drainpipe, we carefully cut the sod in the yard and replaced it back once the drainpipe had been installed.  In a couple of weeks, you won’t be able to tell that we ever dug a trench there.

 

cutting sod for trench

Installing Drainpipe and Replacing the sod

Next, it was time to put the walkway back together.  The pave stones were put back into place and a nice colored gravel was put in the cracks around the walkway stones.

New Edging was also installed around the walkway.

French Drain walk way

French Drain Installed along and under walkway to pool.

 

 

walk way french drain

Completed French Drain under walkway

 

French Drain In Moore with River Rock

 

 

DSC00690

Curb Outlet for French Drain

Drainage System in Moore

Recently we installed a Drainage System in Moore.  Our customer had a new home.  Originally their home was destroyed in Moore‘s last tornado.  Every time it rains their back yard turns into a pond.

 

DSC00680

Drainpipe running from French Drain to the street in Moore

6 Inch French Drain

WE installed a 6-inch French Drain in the back yard and connected the gutter down-spouts into the French Drain.  From that point we ran ADS solid Drain Pipe all the way to the street.  At that point the curb was cut, and a Curb Outlet was installed with acrylic concrete.  The French Drain did the trick.  Drainage Problem solved.

Complex Drainage System

Some Drainage Systems are complex and incorporate several types of drains.  Most Drainage Systems, however, are basic and require just one type of Drain.  Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair install a variety of drains to solve a variety of problems.

French Drains, Surface Drains, and Channel Drains are most commonly used.  If you live in Edmond and need a Channel Drain installed across your driveway, or if you live in Norman and need a French Drain in your backyard, or if you live in Oklahoma City and need a Surface drain installed next to your sidewalk, we can help.

Channel Drain Installed by CMG In Yukon

Channel Drain Installed in Yukon

Channel Drains are one kind of Surface Drain that we install in concrete.

What is a French Drain?

Just what is a “French Drain?” Many times, people incorrectly

use the phrase, “French Drain,” when they mean “Surface Drain” or “Channel Drain.”

A basic French Drain consists of a Perforated Drainpipe in the bottom of a trench. The French Drain Trench runs through a Problem Drainage Area that needs to be drained.   The French Drainpipe is perforated (Full of Small Holes) and has Neo-Prene Soc around the pipe.  This soc helps prevent debris from clogging the French Drainpipe.

The dirt that was taken out to make the trench is hauled away. It is replaced by some type of small stone or gravel depending on what is desired or available.

Crushed Limestone

I prefer crushed 1 inch limestone. It is the most economical option in my area. Pea Gravel or some other type of small stone can work just as well. The limestone or gravel is placed in the trench on top of the perforated Drainpipe and filled all the way to the surface (ground level).

In some cases where the French Drain needs to be deep or is being placed in sandy soil, a special trench liner must be placed in the trench before the perforated Drainpipe or the Gravel are installed. This helps maintain the integrity of the trench over time.

A French Drain is designed to handle a large volume of water and cover a large area. The Drain is anyplace the trench goes. It has many applications and can be used in many situations. It can be installed by itself or incorporated into a Drainage System with Surface Drains or Gutter Downspouts connected to it.

Additional French Drain Help

The main downfall of a French Drain is that they, for the most part isn’t very pretty. They don’t look very nice in a yard once they are completed.

Depending on the area the French Drain is installed and the type of grass around the French Drain, will dictate whether grass grows over the limestone. Grass can grow up and through the gravel in the French Drain over time eventually covering the gravel. This is Ok. It won’t have a measurable effect on the performance of the drain.

Don’t Cover a French Drain with Dirt!

DON’T COVER THE GRAVEL IN THE FRENCH DRAIN WITH DIRT. THE FRENCH DRAIN WON’T WORK IF THE TRENCH IS CLOGGED WITH DIRT. DON’T EVEN INSTALL IT IF YOU ARE GOING TO COVER IT UP WITH DIRT.

DECORATIVE STONE CAN BE USED TO COVER A FRENCH DRAIN AND THEY LOOK GREAT AND LAST A LIFETIME.

Drainage Systems French Drain Help

Drainage Systems can be made up of one drain or a combination of many drains.  Water Problems can be very complex.   Complex Drainage Problems may require a combination of several different types of drains all inter-connected and working together. Many times, a French Drain, might be connected to a Surface Drain, which then could be connected to another French Drain.

Other times the drainage problem may be simple and straight-forward requiring only one drain or several of the same type of drain connected together.

Cutting The Curb and Providing french drain help

French Drain Help

Cutting The Curb for French Drain Outlet

Complex Drainage System

An example of a complex drainage system would be:  A French Drain in the back yard connected to a Surface Drain near a flower bed connected to several gutter downspouts, which are connected to a Channel Drain going across a driveway, which is connected to additional French Drain in the front yard, which runs to a Curb Fitting that lets all the water drain out on to the street.

French Drain Help

A simple Drainage System might consist of a French Drain which runs to a Pop-up Emitter which lets water drain over the curb and into the street.

An “Exit Point” is the term used for where all the water leaves the Drainage System.  Determining the Exit Point is very critical.  It is one of the first things we do when diagnosing a Drainage Problem.

Benefits of A Drainage System

1.  Keep water away from foundations — A French Drain is best because it can move Surface Water and Sub-Surface Water (water moving underground) away from the foundation.

Many times, less experienced companies install Surface Drains to keep water away from foundations.  This can be a big mistake.

Surface Drain Limitations

A Surface Drain can’t move or drain Sub-Surface Water.   Also, A Surface Drain often can’t move enough water fast enough and easily becomes overwhelmed during a heavy rain.

A Surface Drain also can’t cover or protect a broad enough area. Smaller areas and lower water volume is better for a Surface Drain. They can move moderate amounts of water at best.

Surface Drains look better than French Drains.  If, “appearance” is more important than Drainage Capacity, Go with the Surface Drain.  Just know what you are getting into and what your expectations should be. One side of a foundation alone, can be over 100 feet.  A 4 inch or 6-inch French Drain is best when protecting a large area such as a foundation.

What are the ways that water gets into the problem areas?

How does the water get to the problem area?  There may be one or many sources.

Water Sources:

1.  It falls from the sky directly

2.  It flows downhill over the surface (surface water)

3.  It flows underground under the surface (sub-surface water)

4.  It flows from the edge of a roof ( There may be many roofs near the problem area, neighbors etc.)

5.  It flows from a gutter downspout

6.  It flows over the edge of a gutter because the gutter is too small is is clogged

7.  It flows up from the ground (seeps and springs are common in Oklahoma)

8.  It flows from a sprinkler system use (yours or your neighbors)

9.  It flows from a leaking pipe (water mains, water meters, water lines, sprinkler pipes, sprinkler valves)

There are other reasons for Drainage Problems, the above reasons are just the most common.

Once the Water Source is Determined,

 A rough estimate of the amount of water that needs to be drained away on average must be estimated.  This can be simplified down to “SMALL, MEDIUM, OR LARGE AMOUNTS OF WATER TO BE DRAINED AWAY.  You don’t have to be an engineer trying to calculate fluid dynamics.

Experience at diagnosing drainage problems helps, however.  How much water needs to be moved will help determine the type and size of the Surface Drain or French Drain that needs to be installed.  It also helps to determine the size of Drainpipe required for the Drainage System.

A good rule to follow is, “If in doubt, install a larger Drain and Drainpipe.”  Unused Drainage Capacity is better than property damage caused by a Drain that is overwhelmed by too much water.

For home and small business use typical materials used are:

6 inch, 9 inch, and 12 inch Surface Drains –

3 inch, 4 inch, and 6 inch Drainpipes —

3 inch, 4 inch, and 6 inch French Drains —

French Drains move more water than Surface Drains —

French Drains move Surface Water and Sub-Surface Water

Surface Drains move Surface Water only

Surface Drains look nicer than French Drains in most cases

Select and Exit point once the number of drains has been determined. (Where is the Drainage System going to take the water to and release it?)

Curb Outlet

The Drainage Curb Fitting is installed when the desired exit point for the French Drain will release the Drainage Water into the Street.   Installed through the curb is a rectangle curb fitting.  A small section of Curb is cut out with a concrete saw.  The Section is a few inches wider than the Drainage Curb Fitting.  We then install new concrete around the curb fitting.  Connect the pipe from the drains to the curb outlet once the concrete has dried.  Above Information should provide additional French Drain Help.

DSC00701

Installing a Curb Outlet for a French Drain French Drain Help

French Drain Consideration, what you should think about! Sprinkler Repair Service too!

Posted: October 14, 2024 in Emergency Sprinkler Repair, french drain, French Drain Definition, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, sprinkler repair
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French Drain Consideration

Typically, many things must be considered when completing a Drainage Diagnostic.  You need to think about what you need to do and how to go about it.

First, look at some pictures of French Drains.  This will give you a general idea on the structure of a French Drain.

What You Should Consider

1.  Identify the areas being damaged by water and determine if there are any hidden areas.

2.  Identify the sources of water causing the damage.  Most Drainage Problems have more than one source.

You should consider these sources.  As a result, a better Drainage System can be designed.

A water source can fall from the sky as rain or can flow down the hill as stormwater runoff or can flow from a gutter down-spout (yours or your neighbor’s), or flow underground as sub-surface water flow, or water can flow off a sidewalk, driveway, or street.  (These are the most common)

3.  Identify the Exit Point by determining where we want to take the unwanted water.

4.  Determine what type of Drains can best solve the Drainage Problem.  We utilize: French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, Trench Drains, and Sump Pumps.

5.  Determine what type and size of Drainpipe is needed to accommodate the volume of water to be drained.  Larger is always better!  Big Drains with Small Drainpipes never work!

Check Out the Picture Below!  This shows Solid ADS Drainpipe.  The larger pipe is 6 inches.   The Smaller pipe is 4 inch.

4 inch and 6 inch

4 inch and 6-inch Drainpipe

 

The Picture below shows Sewer and Drainpipe.  It can also be used for Drainage Systems.  You should use Sewer and Drain pipe or ADS Drainpipe for most Drainage Systems.

Water Problems

If you have problems with Standing Water after a hard rain, or your driveway or sidewalk turns into a moat after a thunderstorm, or worst of all, you have water standing against your foundation and seeping into your house and vents, Give Oklahoma Drainage a call!

Installing French Drain With "Splash"

Installing French Drain with Splash

 A DRAINAGE SYSTEM IS MUCH LESS EXPENSIVE THAN FOUNDATION REPAIR OR REMOVING MOLD FROM YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS!!

WHERE WE HAVE WORKED!

In 1993 we had no website.  I stuck little signs on the side of the road as advertisement.  I got my first Drain Installation work in March of 1993 in Norman.  It was in Brookhaven North of Robinson Street on the West side of I 35.

Over the years Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair has installed all types of Drainage Systems in almost Every town in Central and Western Oklahoma.

The majority of our customers live in Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Yukon, Mustang, Moore, Midwest City, Del City, Blanchard, New Castle, Yukon and Choctaw.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair hasn’t been limited to those areas, however.  We have also installed French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, and Sump Pumps in many other cities.

Working Drainage Systems Installed by Oklahoma Drainage also reside in: Lawton, Duncan, Ardmore, Chickasha, Shawnee, Enid, Weatherford, Elk City, El reno and many other places.

If you live in any of these Cities or towns, we have installed a French Drain, Surface Drain, Channel Drain, or Sump Pump within 5 miles of your home.

Here is a description of other recent work.

A little bit North of Downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Drainage installed a 6-inch French Drain between two businesses which were less than three feet apart.  The French Drain went between a Law Firm and a Tire shop.  Water was leaking through the walls of both businesses.  Gutters between the two establishments were dumping a huge amount of water.  We installed a 6-inch French Drain between the gutters.

It took a long time to get the dirt out of the trench for the French Drain.  It was a very tight fit.  We had to use a little red wagon to haul out the dirt for the French Drain and haul back in the crushed limestone for the French Drain.  It looked a little silly, but it was the only thing we could find that was narrow enough to fit between the buildings.  A French Drain that normally would take 1 day to install took three.

Oklahoma Drainage provides top quality Sprinkler Repair Service.  If you live in Oklahoma City and need a Sprinkler Head moved, we can help.  You might have a Sprinkler Pipe leak that needs attention.  A Sprinkler Valve might we wore out as well.  You might just want a Sprinkler System Checkup for Spring.  For these problems and many others, Oklahoma Drainage can help.

We service Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond and all of Central and Western Oklahoma.

French Drain Repair and Installation is a Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We installed our first French Drain and completed our first Sprinkler Repair in Norman in 1993.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair — Installing – French Drains – Surface Drains – Channel Drains – Sump Pumps.

Providing Expert Sprinkler Repair – Broken Sprinkler Pipes – Sprinkler Head Adjustment – Sprinkler Valve Replacement

We provide Service for Folks in: Norman, Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Moore.

Central and Western Oklahoma is our Service Area since 1993.  

                                                           (405) 203-9419

Emergency Sprinkler Repair

Sometimes things go wrong with sprinkler systems.

 

IF YOU NEED HELP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT OR ON A WEEKEND WITH YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM, GIVE US A CALL.

OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE AND SPRINKLER REPAIR.  405 203 9419

IT MAY TAKE A FEW HOURS FOR US TO GET THERE BUT WE WILL COME TO HELP.

 

One Common problem is that they continue to run and won’t shut off.  In most cases this is a problem with a sprinkler valve that has “Stuck” in the on position.

This can be temporarily solved by shutting of the Emergency Shutoff Valve.  The problem is that some sprinkler systems don’t have one to turn off or if they do the homeowner doesn’t know where it is.

It may be on the back-flow valve which may be located on the side of the house under a big plastic fake rock.

Many sprinkler systems in Oklahoma have them. (50 % ?)  Under the plastic rock is a back-flow valve with two shut off handles.  Usually, they have blue or green or tan handles.  Turn one of the handles and it should shut off the water to your sprinkler system.

Other times the Emergency Shutoff Valve is in a box in the ground out by the curb near your water meter.  The valve box will have a green lid.  Sometimes they are difficult to open.  Many times, I had to pry them open with a flat head screwdriver.

 

Inside the valve box is a plastic handle that can turn off the water to the sprinkler system.  It can be blue or red or grey in color.

Many times, the valve box will be full of dirt, and you can’t turn or even see the handle until some of the dirt has been dug out by hand.

 

Water might be shooting up in the air somewhere on your property.  This can be caused by a broken sprinkler pipe or sprinkler valve.

SHUT OFF THE SPRINKLER WATER IF YOU CAN AND GIVE US A CALL.

OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE AND SPRINKLER REPAIR. SERVICING ALL OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN OKLAHOMA.

405 203 9419

Servicing Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond and all of Central and Western Oklahoma

 

Sprinkler Controller

Oklahoma City Sprinkler Repair

Sprinkler Repair Service Provided by Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair

Since 1993 we have Replaced Sprinkler Valves that were sticking or were wore out.

Thousands of Sprinkler Heads have been adjusted.

Countless Sprinkler Controllers have been Reprogramed or Replaced.

We also have fixed a broken Sprinkler Pipe or Two.  Seems like a million.  Ok, not that many.

I wonder how many?  A lot!!!!

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair provides Service for all of Central Oklahoma Including:  Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Moore, Yukon and Mustang.

 

French Drain Flood Control, Channel Drain, Sprinkler Repair,Oklahoma City, Edmond, Blanchard, Norman

Posted: October 1, 2024 in Emergency Sprinkler Repair, french drain, French Drain Contractor, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, French Drain Installation, French Drain Photos, sprinkler repair
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French Drain for Flood Control.  Sometimes French Drains are installed to control flooding.  Many times, areas can flood that have drains already installed.  As a general rule, a French Drain can take water into the drainpipe faster than a Surface Drain if installed correctly.

French Drain

Oklahoma Drainage  — Installing – French Drains – Surface Drains – Channel Drains – Sump Pumps

If you have water causing damage to your home or business, we can help!  Oklahoma Drainage has been solving drainage and water problems since 1993.  If you have water standing in your yard or it’s leaking into your AC ducts, we can help.

 

Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.

French Drain Installation

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair has been diagnosing and solving Drainage Problems since 1993.  Water has the ability to get into places around your home where you really don’t want it to be.  Some drainage problems are easy to solve.

Typically, water enters the problem drainage area one way from one source.  The really tricky drainage problems occur when water enters the problem drainage area from multiple directions and from multiple sources.  Sometimes a secondary water source can’t be seen or identified until the primary water problem source is eliminated.

An example of this occurs when water is running into a problem area, in an obvious way, over the ground where you can see it.

Simple enough.

A drainage system is installed with a surface drain as the “intake” with drainage pipe running to an exit point.  Initially the water drains away and everything looks great.  The next day water is back and is all around the surface drain, but below the edge and it hasn’t rained at all, so no additional water ran over the surface of the ground to flood the area.  The primary water source was solved, ( The surface water run off ) but the secondary water source was not.  Which was sub-surface water, (ground water) running into the area.

Surface Drain Limitations

A surface drain can’t drain “ground water.”  A French Drain should have initially been installed instead of a Surface Drain.  A French Drain can drain both Surface Water and Ground Water All Drainage Systems and French Drains as well need a place to take the water to.  This is called an Exit Point.  We use two types of Exits.  The first is a curb outlet.  We cut the curb with a concrete saw and install a rectangular curb outlet set in acrylic concrete.

new curb outlet

Curb outlet with more than 6 inches of fall

A rectangular outlet is superior to a round one.  Air travels back up the pipe through the top two corners to allow a more continuous water flow.  If you have ever poured liquid out of a 2 liter bottle turning it completely upside down, you will see that it drains but not very well.

decorative french drain

Decorative French Drain Running Across a Flower Bed

Oklahoma Drainage installs a variety of other types of Drains.  Our Drainage Systems may utilize: French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, Trench Drains, Basin Drains, and Sump Pumps.  In the past 31 years, we have installed French Drains to keep water away from home and business foundations,

Surface Drains to keep water away from sidewalks and driveways, Trench Drains, and French Drains to keep standing water out of flowerbeds and yards, and Sump Pumps to remove water from basements and outdoor low-lying areas.

Drainage Problems

Wow, Some Drainage Problems are tougher than others.  Had a customer in Chickasha with an unusual Drainage Problem.  She had a new Driveway installed.  The Cement work was nice enough but they left out one major consideration when installing the new Driveway.  Even after a small rain the water would run right down the driveway, under the Garage Door and directly into the Garage.

Church drain dig

Digging a Large Drainage System for a Church

This was a bad problem that was about to get worse.  The first big rain came and everything was magnified.  The Rushing water took out the garage door and the back wall of the garage.  Yikes!!

Hmm, What to do?  The company that installed the Driveway was nowhere to be found.  No surprise.

The water volume was huge, and the customer had no means to redo the driveway which was substantial.

WHERE WE HAVE WORKED!

In 1993 we had no website.  I stuck little signs on the side of the road as advertisement.  I got my first Drain Installation work in March of 1993 in Norman.  It was in Brookhaven North of Robinson Street on the West side of I 35.

Over the years Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair has installed all types of Drainage Systems in almost Every town in Central and Western Oklahoma.

The majority of our customers live in Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Yukon, Mustang, Moore, Midwest City, Del City, Blanchard, New Castle, Yukon and Choctaw.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair hasn’t been limited to those areas, however.  We have also installed French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, and Sump Pumps in many other cities.

Working Drainage Systems Installed by Oklahoma Drainage also reside in: Lawton, Duncan, Ardmore, Chickasha, Shawnee, Enid, Weatherford, Elk City, El reno and many other places.

If you live in any of these Cities or towns, we have installed a French Drain, Surface Drain, Channel Drain, or Sump Pump within 5 miles of your home.

Here is a description of other recent work.

A little bit North of Downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Drainage installed a 6-inch French Drain between two businesses which were less than three feet apart.  The French Drain went between a Law Firm and a Tire shop.  Water was leaking through the walls of both businesses.  Gutters between the two establishments were dumping a huge amount of water.  We installed a 6-inch French Drain between the gutters.

It took a long time to get the dirt out of the trench for the French Drain.  It was a very tight fit.  We had to use a little red wagon to haul out the dirt for the French Drain and haul back in the crushed limestone for the French Drain.  It looked a little silly, but it was the only thing we could find that was narrow enough to fit between the buildings.  A French Drain that normally would take 1 day to install took three.

Sprinkler Repair Facts

 

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair provides Expert Service for Sprinkler Heads, Valves, Controllers and all other Sprinkler System difficulties.  We service Norman, Edmond, Oklahoma City, Moore, Yukon, Mustang, and Midwest City.

Emergency Sprinkler Repair

Sometimes things go wrong with sprinkler systems.

 

IF YOU NEED HELP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT OR ON A WEEKEND WITH YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM, GIVE US A CALL.

OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE AND SPRINKLER REPAIR.  405 203 9419

IT MAY TAKE A FEW HOURS FOR US TO GET THERE BUT WE WILL COME TO HELP.

 

One Common problem is that they continue to run and won’t shut off.  In most cases this is a problem with a sprinkler valve that has “Stuck” in the on position.

This can be temporarily solved by shutting of the Emergency Shutoff Valve.  The problem is that some sprinkler systems don’t have one to turn off or if they do the homeowner doesn’t know where it is.

It may be on the back-flow valve which may be located on the side of the house under a big plastic fake rock.

Many sprinkler systems in Oklahoma have them. (50 % ?)  Under the plastic rock is a back-flow valve with two shut off handles.  Usually, they have blue or green or tan handles.  Turn one of the handles and it should shut off the water to your sprinkler system.

Other times the Emergency Shutoff Valve is in a box in the ground out by the curb near your water meter.  The valve box will have a green lid.  Sometimes they are difficult to open.  Many times, I had to pry them open with a flat head screwdriver.

 

Inside the valve box is a plastic handle that can turn off the water to the sprinkler system.  It can be blue or red or grey in color.

Many times, the valve box will be full of dirt, and you can’t turn or even see the handle until some of the dirt has been dug out by hand.

 

Water might be shooting up in the air somewhere on your property.  This can be caused by a broken sprinkler pipe or sprinkler valve.

SHUT OFF THE SPRINKLER WATER IF YOU CAN AND GIVE US A CALL.

OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE AND SPRINKLER REPAIR. SERVICING ALL OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN OKLAHOMA.

405 203 9419

Servicing Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond and all of Central and Western Oklahoma

 

Sprinkler Controller Repair is a service provided by Oklahoma Drainage.  A Sprinkler Controller is the “Brain,” of a Sprinkler System.  They can wear out or stop working.  Power surges in the home can cause damage to a controller.

Programming can be difficult for homeowners.  We can help with programming or replace a Sprinkler Module if it is defective.

Start Time Programming

“Start Time” programing many times is confusing for homeowners.  The definition of a Start Time is a time that is chosen for the sprinkler system to start watering.  It causes zone 1 to start running.  When zone 1 is finished it automatically stops and zone 2 begins.  When Zone 2 is complete it stops and zone 3 begins.  Simple enough Right!  This continues until the last zone programed available runs.

The confusion begins when people think that a time needs to be set to start zone 2 and 3 and so on.  This is not the case.  They follow zone 1 which has the only Start Time programmed into the controller.

Be Careful with Multiple Start Times, just use One at first.

Sprinkler Controllers have a feature providing multiple start times, up to 4 Start Times are usually available.  These additional start times are only used when a person wants to run the entire system more than once in a 24-hour period.

For Example, the first Start Time is set at 9Am.  Zone 1 begins to run at 9am.  When Zone 1 is done, say 10 minutes later, Zone 2 begins and runs for 10 minutes, then zone 3 follows and so on.  By 10 am let’s say all the zones have run.  Let’s say 8 hours later you have a second start time at 6 Pm.  Zone 1 comes on and runs and by 7pm all the zones have run again.  So, the controller has 2 start times which have caused the Sprinkler System to run start to finish twice in a 24-hour period.

Here is the big problem!  Some Homeowners believe the second start time is to start zone 2 running.  They also think that the 3rd start time is to start zone 3 and the 4-start time is to run zone 4.  No!!

So, this is how they program the controller.  At 9am they have a start time and zone 1 starts.  The homeowner programs a second start time at 9:10 am to mistakenly start zone 2.  Nope!  It starts zone 1 all over again.  At 9:2o they have a 3rd start time for zone 3.  Nope!  It starts zone 1 for a third time.  Now the controller is stuck in a loop and zone 1 runs constantly and won’t shut off.

If Sprinkler Controller Programming is confusing?  Make sure you only have One Start Time!

“Run Time,” is completed Next.  It determines how long each zone runs.  Zone One 10 Minutes,     Zone Two, 15 Minutes, Zone Three 8 Minutes.  You can set how long you want each zone to run.

French Drain Repair and Installation is a Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We installed our first French Drain and completed our first Sprinkler Repair in Norman in 1993.

We started with the Valves

The Sprinkler Valves were located in the back yard near the pool.  Six valves were located in one place.  They were very tightly connected in one Manifold.  None of the Sprinkler Valves had worked in a long time.  They were Toro Valves that were over 20 years old.  They all had to be replaced.

Surprisingly there was no shut-off valve for the Sprinkler Water.  The water had to be shut off at the Meter so we could install a Manual Shut off valve.  Once installed, the water was turned back on that ran to the house.   The water that ran to the Sprinkler System was shut off with our New Shut Off Valve.

Rainbird Sprinkler Valve

Rainbird Sprinkler Valve

The Sprinkler Valves Were Removed

Now, the 6 valves had to replaced.  The valves that were used were made by Rain Bird.  Before we began, I had to talk to the Customer.  The previous valve design was a bad idea to repeat.

The original Sprinkler Valves were crammed into one large valve box in one very tight manifold.  This is bad because the valves were too close to the fittings.  Simply put, if one valve had to be replaced or worked on in the future, all 6 valves had to be taken out and replaced.   If one valve was bad and 5 worked fine, they all still had to be replaced.

That’s Stupid!

I recommended that an additional Valve Box be installed putting 3 valves in each Valve Box.  This would allow plenty of space between the valve fittings.  If one Sprinkler Valve had to be adjusted or replaced in the future, the other 5 valves need not be disturbed.  Simple Enough!

Check For Leaks

Once the valves were replaced and working, it was time to turn on each Sprinkler Zone, one at a time.  Water was shooting up from the ground in several places in zone 1.  Two broken Sprinkler Pipes and 5 bad Sprinkler Heads in zone 1 had to be fixed and replaced.  We went through each of the 6 zones in similar fashion fixing lots of leaks and replacing bad sprinkler heads.

The Sprinkler Repair Cost About Half of the Cost of Completely New System.

Rotor and Pop-Up Sprinkler Heads

Rotor and Pop-Up Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler Repair Service Provided by Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair

Since 1993 we have Replaced Sprinkler Valves that were sticking or were wore out.

Thousands of Sprinkler Heads have been adjusted.

Countless Sprinkler Controllers have been Reprogramed or Replaced.

Sprinkler Head Adjustment is a service provided by Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair.  We have adjusted sprinkler heads since 1993.

Many times, Sprinkler heads get, “Out of Wack.”  Lawn mowers and weed eaters are notorious for this.  Sprinkler heads start spraying water in the wrong place.  It is frustrating to water concrete while plants and grass go without moisture.

Pop-Up Sprinkler Heads

Pop-Up Sprinkler Heads can be adjusted several ways.  How far water goes to the left or right can be increased or decreased.  The distance the water goes can also be increased or decreased.  Finally, how high a sprinkler head pops up can be increased or decreased by installing a taller or shorter head.

Sometimes sprinkler heads spray a reduced distance and don’t perform very well due to water scale.  Minerals in the water can completely clog a Pop-Up.  Usually, the sprinkler nozzle on top of the sprinkler head, need only be replaced without replacing the entire head.

Rotor Sprinkler Heads also can be adjusted to the left or right.  Spray Distance can be increased or decreased as well.

Needs Change

What’s going on in your yard can change.  This calls for Sprinkler Head Adjustment.  Adding or removing a swimming pool changes everything concerning sprinkler heads.  Any number of things can change the necessary sprinkler head coverage.

 

 

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair — Installing – French Drains – Surface Drains – Channel Drains – Sump Pumps.

Providing Expert Sprinkler Repair – Broken Sprinkler Pipes – Sprinkler Head Adjustment – Sprinkler Valve Replacement

We provide Service for Folks in: Norman, Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Moore.

Central and Western Oklahoma is our Service Area since 1993.  

                                                           (405) 203-9419

Check out Sprinkler System Check-Up

 

Decorative French Drain and Channel Drain

French Drain Mistakes and Considerations, Sprinkler Repair

Posted: September 27, 2024 in Emergency Sprinkler Repair, french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, French Drain mistakes, French Drain Problems, sprinkler repair
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French Drain Mistakes

French Drain mistakes are made by Homeowners and Contractors.  We will focus on mistakes made by Homeowners.

 

Oklahoma Drainage installs French Drains, Channel Drains, Surface Drains and Sump Pumps.  We also provide top quality Sprinkler Repair for all of Central and Western Oklahoma.

 

Trench Liner and Pipe Filter Installed on French Drain

Trench Liner and Pipe Filter Installed with French Drain

French Drain Mistakes are very common and unfortunate.   Mistakes are caused by many different reasons.  One or several mistakes can cause a New French Drain to perform poorly, or not at all.  Time and money are wasted.  People with Water Damage need to have their drainage system work correctly and last a long time.

People who have need for French Drain Installation are highly motivated.  Unwanted water in your AC Floor Ducts for example, motivates folks to do something quickly.

Cracking Driveways

Cracking Driveways and Foundations from Water Damage is also an “ATTENTION GETTER.”

In the picture below, look at the water stains on the Driveway.  A correctly installed 6 Inch French Drain has solved the Standing Water Problem.  The driveway will stay dry and last.

French Drain Versatility is a wonderful thing.   Correct French Drain Installation solves a wide variety of water drainage problems.

Still Mistakes Are Made.

To Start, The Biggest French Drain Mistake is a Unqualified Drainage Diagnosis.   This is taking bad advice from someone who really doesn’t know.   Bad advice leads to a Drainage System that performs poorly or won’t work at all. This Obviously, occurs all the time in today’s world, whether It be French Drain Diagnosis or Auto Repair, or any other contract work you might want done.

Typical Mistakes

Additional mistakes that relate to Unqualified Drainage Diagnosis are:

1.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor that can’t provide good current References.

2.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor that has been in business less than 5 years.

3.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor that doesn’t specialize in French Drain Installation.

4.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor Who needs money up front.

In Review, If you have a French Drain Contractor who needs money up front to begin work, or is also good at landscaping or pushing a lawn mower, then you should RUN!  You need References! You need to know how long they have been in business.

Drainage System VS Flood Prevention System

The Second Most Common French Drain Mistake Is NOT DECIDING if a French Drain should be a part of a “Drainage System,” or a “Flood Prevention System.  You need to understand the difference between the two and choose one.  A French Drain Expert can help you make that decision.   A French Drain can be a part of A Drainage System or a part of a Flood Prevention System.

A Drainage System drains water away from a Water Problem Area over time.

A Flood Prevention System prevents water from ever getting into the Problem Drainage Area in the first place.

Flood Prevention Systems Intercept Surface Water and Sub-Surface water at the same time.  The pipes are larger and more robust than the pipes in a Drainage System.  Flood Prevention Systems are more expensive and harder to install as well.

The Third mistake that is made with a French Drain being installed is lack of a Trench Liner or Pipe Filter being used.  The Trench Liner maintains the integrity of the Drainage Trench and keeps the Gravel or Crushed Stone that is used clean.

The Pipe Filter keeps Debris out of the French Drain Pipe.

Both of these things ensure longevity and functionality of a French Drain.  I have Installed French Drains all the way back to 1993 that still work great!

The 4th mistake with a French Drain Installation is ,” Not Setting The Fall of the French Drain.”  “Setting The Fall,” is a process that makes sure that water flows through the French Drain Trench at a Constant Speed.  French Drains always cross ground that is irregular.  They cross humps and low areas.  This process is done by French Drain Professionals or Individuals who are accomplished and understand the two ways that “Fall may be set.”

Bad Fall

“Bad Fall,” For a French Drain means that water will stand in several low areas of the French Drain underground.    Once the French Drain has finished draining, it should be empty.   You want all the water to drain out of the French Drain Pipe.  By looking at the French Drain on the surface, It will look fine.    You won’t be able to tell if some of the Drainage Water Stayed inside the French Drain.  Everything will look OK, but it won’t be.  If any type of tree is nearby, the tree roots will seek out the water that is left in a french drain.   Tree roots attack the French Drainpipe causing damage.  Soon  French Drain Performance will drop off.  In may quit working completely over time.

TREE ROOTS WON’T ATTACK A FRENCH DRAINPIPE THAT IS EMPTY!

Oklahoma Drainage provides top quality Sprinkler Repair Service.  If you live in Oklahoma City and need a Sprinkler Head moved, we can help.  You might have a Sprinkler Pipe leak that needs attention.  A Sprinkler Valve might we wore out as well.  You might just want a Sprinkler System Checkup for Spring.  For these problems and many others, Oklahoma Drainage can help.

We service Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond and all of Central and Western Oklahoma.

Emergency Sprinkler Repair

Sometimes things go wrong with sprinkler systems.

 

IF YOU NEED HELP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT OR ON A WEEKEND WITH YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM, GIVE US A CALL.

OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE AND SPRINKLER REPAIR.  405 203 9419

IT MAY TAKE A FEW HOURS FOR US TO GET THERE BUT WE WILL COME TO HELP.

 

One Common problem is that they continue to run and won’t shut off.  In most cases this is a problem with a sprinkler valve that has “Stuck” in the on position.

This can be temporarily solved by shutting of the Emergency Shutoff Valve.  The problem is that some sprinkler systems don’t have one to turn off or if they do the homeowner doesn’t know where it is.

It may be on the back-flow valve which may be located on the side of the house under a big plastic fake rock.

Many sprinkler systems in Oklahoma have them. (50 % ?)  Under the plastic rock is a back-flow valve with two shut off handles.  Usually, they have blue or green or tan handles.  Turn one of the handles and it should shut off the water to your sprinkler system.

Other times the Emergency Shutoff Valve is in a box in the ground out by the curb near your water meter.  The valve box will have a green lid.  Sometimes they are difficult to open.  Many times, I had to pry them open with a flat head screwdriver.

 

Inside the valve box is a plastic handle that can turn off the water to the sprinkler system.  It can be blue or red or grey in color.

Many times, the valve box will be full of dirt, and you can’t turn or even see the handle until some of the dirt has been dug out by hand.

 

Water might be shooting up in the air somewhere on your property.  This can be caused by a broken sprinkler pipe or sprinkler valve.

SHUT OFF THE SPRINKLER WATER IF YOU CAN AND GIVE US A CALL.

OKLAHOMA DRAINAGE AND SPRINKLER REPAIR. SERVICING ALL OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN OKLAHOMA.

405 203 9419

Servicing Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond and all of Central and Western Oklahoma

 

 

 

 

 

French Drain Common Mistakes, What You Should Avoid! Photos too

Posted: September 23, 2024 in french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, French Drain mistakes
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French Drain Common Mistakes

What is a French Drain?

French Drain Benefit That I Never Expected

Take a minute and CLICK the above link.  It makes me smile!

French Drain Repair and Installation is a Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We installed our first French Drain and completed our first Sprinkler Repair in Norman in 1993.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair — Installing – French Drains – Surface Drains – Channel Drains – Sump Pumps.

Providing Expert Sprinkler Repair – Broken Sprinkler Pipes – Sprinkler Head Adjustment – Sprinkler Valve Replacement

We provide Service for Folks in: Norman, Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Moore.

Central and Western Oklahoma is our Service Area since 1993.  

                                                           (405) 203-9419

Once you have decided that you need a French Drain and understand what it is and how it works, There are many MISTAKES that should be avoided.  Oklahoma Drainage has been installing most all variations of French Drains since 1993.

French Drain Mistakes

are very common and unfortunate.   Mistakes are caused by many different reasons.  One or several mistakes can cause a New French Drain to perform poorly, or not at all.  Time and money are wasted.  People with Water Damage need to have their drainage system work correctly and last a long time.

People who have need for French Drain Installation are highly motivated.  Unwanted water in your AC Floor Ducts for example, motivates folks to do something quickly.

Installing 4 Inch French Drain with trench Liner and pipe filter

The White Material is the Trench Liner. The black material is the Pipe Filter.

Cracking Driveways and Foundations from Water Damage is also an “ATTENTION GETTER.”

In the picture below, look at the water stains on the Driveway.  A correctly installed 6 Inch French Drain has solved the Standing Water Problem.  The driveway will stay dry and last.

French Drain Versatility

is a wonderful thing.   Correct French Drain Installation solves a wide variety of water drainage problems.

Still Mistakes Are Made.

The Biggest Mistake

To Start, The Biggest French Drain Mistake is Unqualified Drainage Diagnosis.   This is taking bad advice from someone who really doesn’t know.   Bad advice leads to a Drainage System that performs poorly or won’t work at all. This Obviously, occurs all the time in today’s world, whether It be French Drain Diagnosis or Auto Repair, or any other contract work you might want done.

Additional mistakes that relate to Unqualified Drainage Diagnosis are:

1.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor that can’t provide good current References.

2.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor that has been in business less than 5 years.

3.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor that doesn’t specialize in French Drain Installation.

4.  Selecting a Drainage Contractor Who needs money up front.

In Review, If you have a French Drain Contractor who needs money up front to begin work or is also good at landscaping or pushing a lawn mower, then you should RUN!  You need References! You need to know how long they have been in business.

Another Big Mistake

The Second Most Common French Drain Mistake Is NOT DECIDING if a French Drain should be a part of a “Drainage System,” or a “Flood Prevention System.  You need to understand the difference between the two and choose one.  A French Drain Expert can help you make that decision.   A French Drain can be a part of A Drainage System or a part of a Flood Prevention System.

A Drainage System drains water away from a Water Problem Area over time.

A Flood Prevention System prevents water from ever getting into the Problem Drainage Area in the first place.

Flood Prevention Systems Intercept Surface Water and Sub-Surface water at the same time.  The pipes are larger and more robust than the pipes in a Drainage System.  Flood Prevention Systems are more expensive and harder to install as well.

The Third mistake that is made with a French Drain being installed is lack of a Trench Liner or Pipe Filter being used.  The Trench Liner maintains the integrity of the Drainage Trench and keeps the Gravel or Crushed Stone that is used clean.

The Pipe Filter keeps Debris out of the French Drain Pipe.

Both of these things ensure longevity and functionality of a French Drain.  I have Installed French Drains all the way back to 1993 that still work great!

Setting The Fall

The 4th mistake with a French Drain Installation is ,” Not Setting The Fall of the French Drain.”  “Setting The Fall,” is a process that makes sure that water flows through the French Drain Trench at a Constant Speed.  French Drains always cross ground that is irregular.  They cross humps and low areas.  This process is done by French Drain Professionals or Individuals who are accomplished and understand the two ways that “Fall may  be set.”

“Bad Fall,” For a French Drain means that water will stand in several low areas of the French Drain underground.    Once the French Drain has finished draining, it should be empty.   You want all the water to drain out of the French Drainpipe.  By looking at the French Drain on the surface, It will look fine.    You wont be able to tell if some of the Drainage Water Stayed inside the French Drain.  Everything will look OK, but it won’t be.  If any type of tree is nearby, the tree roots will seek out the water that is left in a French drain.   Tree roots attack the French Drainpipe causing damage.  Soon French Drain Performance will drop off.  In may quit working completely over time.

TREE ROOTS WON’T ATTACK A FRENCH DRAINPIPE THAT IS EMPTY!

 

 

 

 

French Drain Help, Sprinkler Repair, Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond

Posted: April 7, 2024 in french drain, French Drain Design, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, sprinkler repair, sprinkler repair contractor, Sprinkler Repair Service
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Harsh weather in Oklahoma seems to be more common.  In 2023, Norman Oklahoma had 4 inches of rain in two hours.  That’s the most rain in a short time that I can remember.  Storm-Water runoff can cause damage to all types of property and buildings.  Water getting inside your house is never a good thing.  A Drainage System that utilizes a French Drain can help.

Installing Decorative French Drain In Norman Oklahoma

Installing Decorative French Drain The Right Way

Oklahoma Drainage Installs 4 Inch and 6 French Drains.

A French Drain is the “Intake” part of a Drainage System.  Simply Put, the French Drain is the part of the Drainage System that takes in the water in the low areas and gets it into the pipe.

Installing 4 Inch French Drain With Trench Liner and Pipe Filter In Blanchard Oklahoma

Installing 4 Inch French Drain with Trench Liner and Pipe Filter In Blanchard Oklahoma

 

French Drain – A French Drain is a perforated pipe that is basically full of slits or holes.  A trench is dug across the problem drainage area.   A Semi-permeable liner is placed in the trench which lets in water but not dirt. The dirt from the trench is hauled away.   The French Drain Pipe has a Neo-Preen Soc around it witch also lets in water but keeps the dirt out.

The perforated pipe is placed in the trench.  The Drainage trench is dug deep enough so that the perforated French Drainpipe is several inches below ground level when placed in the trench.  Next gravel or some type of crushed stone is placed on top and around the French Drain perforated pipe until the trench is full.

French Drain

French Drain Near Driveway

French Drain Protecting Driveway

French Drains can be complex or simple.  A Simple French Drain System is a French Drain Connected to an Exit Drainpipe that is released out a pop up emitter.

An example of a complex drainage system would be:  A French Drain in the back yard connected to a Surface Drain near a flower bed connected to several gutter downspouts, which are connected to a Channel Drain going across a driveway, which is connected to additional Surface Drain in the front yard, which runs to a Curb Fitting that lets all the water drain out on to the street.

Sprinkler Valve Installation

Sprinkler Valve Replacement

 

WHERE WE HAVE WORKED!

In 1993 we had no website.  I stuck little signs on the side of the road as advertisement.  I got my first Drain Installation work in March of 1993 in Norman.  It was in Brookhaven North of Robinson Street on the West side of I 35.

Over the years Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair has installed all types of Drainage Systems in almost Every town in Central and Western Oklahoma.

The majority of our customers live in Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Yukon, Mustang, Moore, Midwest City, Del City, Blanchard, New Castle, Yukon and Choctaw.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair hasn’t been limited to those areas, however.  We have also installed French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, and Sump Pumps in many other cities.

Working Drainage Systems Installed by Oklahoma Drainage also reside in: Lawton, Duncan, Ardmore, Chickasha, Shawnee, Enid, Weatherford, Elk City, El reno and many other places.

If you live in any of these Cities or towns, we have installed a French Drain, Surface Drain, Channel Drain, or Sump Pump within 5 miles of your home.

Drain Pipe Under Sidewalk

Drainpipe Under Sidewalk

Here is a description of other recent work.

A little bit North of Downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Drainage installed a 6-inch French Drain between two businesses which were less than three feet apart.  The French Drain went between a Law Firm and a Tire shop.  Water was leaking through the walls of both businesses.  Gutters between the two establishments were dumping a huge amount of water.  We installed a 6-inch French Drain between the gutters.

It took a long time to get the dirt out of the trench for the French Drain.  It was a very tight fit.  We had to use a little red wagon to haul out the dirt for the French Drain and haul back in the crushed limestone for the French Drain.  It looked a little silly, but it was the only thing we could find that was narrow enough to fit between the buildings.  A French Drain that normally would take 1 day to install took three.

Sprinkler Repair Service Provided by Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair

Since 1993 we have Replaced Sprinkler Valves that were sticking or were wore out.

Thousands of Sprinkler Heads have been adjusted.

Countless Sprinkler Controllers have been Reprogramed or Replaced.

We also have fixed a broken Sprinkler Pipe or Two.  Seems like a million.  Ok, not that many.

I wonder how many?  A lot!!!!

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair provides Service for all of Central Oklahoma Including:  Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Moore, Yukon and Mustang.

Drainage Diagnostics, French Drain, Sprinkler Repair

Posted: April 27, 2023 in Channel Drain, french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, French Drain Repair
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1

Drainage Diagnostics is a way of figuring out what to do about your Water Problem. Typically, many things must be considered when completing a Drainage Diagnostic.

Small Channel Drain Installed In the Corner of a Patio

Small Channel Drain Installed On Patio In Lawton,                Drain Definitions 

Drainage Diagnostics

1.  Identify the areas being damaged by water and determine if there are any hidden areas.  The big water problem areas are easy to see, hidden areas are the less noticeable.  We look for secondary Drainage Problems, not just the Primary Drainage.  This helps prevent missing something small that will become a problem once the big Drainage Issues are fixed. 

2.  Identify the sources of water causing the damage.  Most Drainage Problems have more than one source.  A water source can fall from the sky as rain, or can flow down the hill as storm-water runoff, or can flow from a gutter down-spout (yours or your neighbor’s),  or flow under ground as sub-surface water flow, or water can flow off a sidewalk, driveway, or street.  (These are the most common)

Exit Point

3.  Identify the Exit Point.  Where should the unwanted water be taken.

4.  Determine what type of Drains can best solve the Drainage Problem.  We utilize: French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, Trench Drains, and Sump Pumps.

5.  Determine what type and size of Drainpipe is needed to accommodate the volume of water to be drained.  Larger is always better!  Big Drains with Small Drainpipes are never a good combination! Above are a few of the principles utilized by Oklahoma Drainage when solving a water problem.  (Drainage Diagnostic)

Recently we had a customer with a sever water problem. They had recently purchased a new home which was built on a hill side. The hill behind the house was steep and the grade to keep the water from running into their back porch wasn’t very good.

Water was running under the cement slab of the back porch. To make matters worse cracking was occurring in the new concrete.

The Solution involved installing a 6 inch French drain running the entire length of the house to intercept the surface water running down the hill into the house.

More importantly, the French Drain intercepted the underground sub-surface water that was running down the hill and under the slab.

French Drains protect homes and foundations from surface water and sub-surface water.

We also connected 6 gutter down spouts directly into the drainage system. Problem solved.

We also Install Channel Drains across Driveways and Sidewalks.

Channel Drain Across Driveway Connected to 4 inch ADS Drain Pipe on One Side and ADS French Drain with Trench Liner and Pipe Filter on the other

French Drain Connected to a Channel Drain across the Driveway,         Drain Definitions 

 

French Drain Blanchard, Installation, Information, Sprinkler Repair,Norman, Moore, Edmond,

Posted: April 9, 2023 in Blanchard French Drain, french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Information, French Drain Installation
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French Drain Blanchard, Installation, Information, Norman, Moore, Edmond, Blanchard

Servicing Central and Western Oklahoma Since 1993

Oklahoma Drainage recently diagnosed a Drainage Problem in South Oklahoma City.  The Home owner had a sump Pump in their basement that was fed from a French Drain outside the Basement Wall.  The Drain was 14 feet down along the Stem wall of the house.

The French Drain Pipe was cheap and had collapsed.  We brought in a Mini Excavator and dug up the pipe and replaced it with Durable ADS 4 inch perf/soc French Drain pipe.  In the end, we were able to dig up the pipe and replace it.

French Drain Design

French Drain Design must take into account many variables.  One consideration for a French Drain that many times is missed, is the type of soil.  French Drain Design must take into account the type of soil that the French Drain runs through.  If the soil is “Tight or made up of Clay, A French Drain Liner may not be necessary.  The Gravel or Limestone that is used to fill the French Drain trench may be all that is needed to maintain the integrity of the trench over time.   This means that dirt will not mix in with the French Drain Gravel and clog it up over time.

This is not the case however if your soil is sandy or loose.  A Trench Liner should be used to prevent this type of soil from moving into the gravel of the French Drain.  Trench Liners are relatively inexpensive and are not hard to install.  If you are not sure what to do then install the Trench Liner in the French Drain.

What Does a  Good Drainage System Have?

A good Drainage System has a point where water enters the System.  This is usually through a French Drain, Surface Drain, or a Gutter Down Spout that is connected into a Drainpipe.

Water will run through either Perforated French Drainpipe or Solid Drainpipe depending on the Drainage System Design.  Water will flow down hill to an Exit Point where the water will be released out of the Drainage System.  This is a done through a Pop-Up Emitter or a Curb Fitting.

Drainage Systems can be made up of one drain or a combination of many drains.  They can be very complex.   Complex Drainage Problems may require a combination of several different types of drains all inter-connected and working together.

Other times the drainage problem may be simple and straight-forward requiring only one drain or several of the same type of drain connected together.

An example of a complex drainage system would be:  A French Drain in the back yard connected to a Surface Drain near a flower bed connected to several gutter downspouts, which are connected to a Channel Drain going across a driveway, which is connected to additional Surface Drain in the front yard, which runs to a Curb Fitting that lets all the water drain out on to the street.

A simple Drainage System might consist of a Surface Drain that is connected to a second Surface Drain which runs to a Pop-up Emitter which lets water drain over the curb and into the street.

6 Inch French Drain Installation

Today we installed a 6 Inch French Drain at an apartment complex near Lake Heffner.  The French Drain started in the back yard of one unit.  The Drainpipe went under the fence and into the adjoining unit’s back yard.  The French Drain then looped around their patio and out under their fence to the west.  To get the 6-inch Drainpipe to the correct Exit Point, we had to cut out 30 feet of sidewalk and run the French Drainpipe under the sidewalk.

Next, we replaced the sidewalk with new concrete.  Finally, we dug a drainage ditch across the front yard to the parking lot.  We covered the Drainpipe with sod that we carefully removed when digging the trench.

We installed a 6-inch pop up emitter At the edge of the parking lot.   Seven Gutters were connected directly into the Drainage System along the way.

This particular Drainage System was made up of 55 Feet of 6-inch French Drain, 78 Feet of Solid ADS Solid Drainpipe, Seven Gutter Connections, and one 6-inch Pop-Up Emitter.

French Drain Expert Oklahoma, Surface Drain, Sump Pump, for Oklahoma City

Posted: October 14, 2022 in french drain, French Drain Help, French Drain Installation, oklahoma city
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French Drain Expert Oklahoma

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair – 405 203 9419

Do You have water in a place in your home or business that is a Problem?

Do you need help?

Oklahoma Drainage – 405 203 9419

We Install Drainage Systems to fit various needs for home owners an businesses.  A Drainage System, can utilize French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains or Sump Pumps as the intake part to the Drainage System.  The Drain or Sump Pump brings water into the Drainpipe.  The Drainpipe takes the water to the ” Exit.”  Which is Either a “Curb Outlet” or a “ Pop Up Emitter.”

The Three parts of A Drainage System are:

THE  INTAKE ( French Drain or Surface Drain ) etc.  The TRANSITION ( The Pipe) which can be many sizes or type. The EXIT ( A Curb Outlet or Pop Up Emitter )

new curb outlet

Curb outlet with more than 6 inches of fall

new curb outlet

Curb Outlet as an Exit Point for a French Drain in Edmond

The Drainage

part of our company name means that we solve water problems for people in Oklahoma.  Heavy rain is becoming more common.  Back in 1993 when I first started, a hard rain was considered to be about an Inch per/hour.  It was fairly rare but not too uncommon.  Today things are different.  A weather report of rain fall at or above 4 inches per/hour was not uncommon in 2019.  Excess water causes all types of damage to property both residential and commercial.

Our Drainage Systems drain water away from places you don’t want it to be.  You might have water standing along the foundation of your house, or inside your basement.  You might have water on your driveway or flowerbed too.

Designing a French Drain or a Drainage System

When I talk to a potential customer while doing a Drainage System estimate, I take a lot of things into consideration.  First I have the Customer show me where water is standing or where it is going that it shouldn’t.  This is part of defining the specific problem area.  Sometimes the Water Problem Area is larger and more involved than the customer realizes.  Once the Water Problem Area is clearly defined,  the next step is to determine how the water is getting to the problem area.  Many times there is more than one Water Source to the Water Problem area.

A big mistake

in Drainage System Design is to stop once the most obvious Water Source is found.  A Drainage System Designer must be a detective to some degree.  For Example:  Water running down the hill and onto the back patio might be the most obvious water source.  Sub-surface water or a neighbor’s new gutter downspout could also be contributing.  Most of the time water gets into the problem area from more than one source.

Next you must decide where to take the water.  This is determining an Exit Point for the Drainage System.  If possible, you want your exit point to be down hill from the problem area.  If it is up hill in all directions from the problem area, then the only solution is a Sump Pump.

Once an exit Point is determined, you must ask yourself if there is any way to install two exit points.  Usually this can only work when an exit point can work on both ends of a Drainage System.  The benefit of two Exit Points in a Drainage System is it greatly increases the water capacity for the Drainage System.  It can move much more water faster during a heavy rain than a system with just one Exit Point.  Most Drainage Systems can only utilize one Exit Point.  In 21 years of Drainage System Installation,  I would say 10% of our Drainage Systems have two Exit Points.

Popup Emitter to release water from a French Drain in Yukon

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