Posts Tagged ‘French Drain’

French Drain Curb Outlet, Channel Drain Pop-Up Emitter,

Posted: April 26, 2023 in Channel Drain, french drain
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French Drain Curb Outlet

When a French Drain is Installed, You need to take the water away from the Water Problem Area.  Where the water is taken Is called the Drainage Exit.  No Drain Of any kind will work if there is no exit.

Oklahoma Drainage Installs 2 types of Drainage Exits, Curb Outlets and Pop-Up Emitters.

Here is a picture of a Curb Outlet for a Channel Drain.

Curb Outlet for french drain

Curb Outlet for French Drain,          Drain Definitions 

Here is a Curb outlet in Oklahoma City.

 

French Drain Installation

French Drain Installation was the first job we ever completed back in 1993.

It all began for Oklahoma Drainage in 1993.  We installed our first French Drain South of HW 9 near the golf course.

Business Started Slowly.  There was no website or other forms of Advertisement.  Just Paper signs staked on the side of the road.

Since then, we have helped over 5000 customers in central and Western Oklahoma.

French Drain in Norman

Recently Oklahoma Drainage installed a 6-inch French Drain for a customer in East Norman.  She had water coming down the hill in her back yard, on to her patio, and into her back door.  Also there was water standing on the side of her house.  Water was standing near the AC unit.  Water was standing by the South side garage door too.

We installed a 6-inch French Drain all the way around the house with 2 curb outlets, One on the North Side of the driveway, and one on the South.

We also connected 4 Gutter Down Spouts directly into the French Drain which made the Drainage System more efficient and caused suction in the French drain improving performance and preventing Vapor Lock during Flooding Situations.

This Design Solved all their water problems and was tested with a heavy rain the day after work was completed.

What Size French Drainpipe is Available

When installing a Drainage System of any type, a decision must be made on the size of Drain Pipe used.  Typically, 6-inch, 4 inch, and 3 inches are the most common in Residential Drainage Systems.

 

If you have one or two 6-inch Surface Drains or a stretch of French Drain that is less than 10 feet, then a 3 inch drain pipe can be used.   Three-inch drainpipe is used for low volume applications.

4 inch and 6 inch

4 inch and 6-inch Drain Pipe

If you have two or three 12 inch Surface Drains or a stretch of French Drain that is 60 feet or less, then 4-inch drainpipe should do the job.

If you have Six 12-inch Surface Drains or less or 100 Feet of French Drain, Then the use of 6 inch drain pipe becomes necessary.

two French Drain

100 feet of French drain

Drainage Limitations

These numbers can be exceeded.  More Surface Drains or French Drain can be added to the above listing.  As a result, the drainpipe will be overwhelmed at times of heavy rain.  If it is OK with you for your French Drains or Surface Drains to Stand Underwater for a while.  In most cases the Drainage System can catch up and clear the excess water away.  How long it stays underwater varies from one application to another.

Slope is a big consideration.  If your drainpipe runs downhill nicely and the water moves quickly, then you can exceed the above numbers.  If you have very little slope and your Drainpipe only runs downhill slightly, then installing fewer drains is definitely a good idea.

Connecting a gutter downspout to a drain that only has a small slope is always a good idea.  The water on the roof has nice velocity when it comes out the gutter and into the drainpipe.  It speeds up the water movement when the slope ins’t very good.  It also causes suction behind the gutter downspout in the French Drain or Surface Drain that you have installed.

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.

 

Installing a Curb Outlet In Norman.

Curb outlet for french drain

Installing Curb Outlet for French Drain Exit,         Drain Definitions 

We also Install Pop-Up Emitters as an Exit For French Drains or Channel Drains.

 

 

Pop up emitter next to sidewalk

Popup Emitter to release water from a French Drain in Yukon,          Drain Definitions 

 

French Drain In Oklahoma City, Do You need a French Drain

Posted: February 26, 2023 in french drain, oklahoma city
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Oklahoma City French Drain Installation

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

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.  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.

Do you have water seeping into your floor vents after a hard rain?  Is water causing damage to your floors or carpet?  Is water finding a way under your foundation after a thunder storm?  Oklahoma Drainage designs and installs Drainage Systems that can help stop the damage.  We utilize:  French Drains, Surface Drains, Channel Drains, and Sump Pumps to protect property.  Connecting gutter-downspouts into the Drainage System is always a good idea where possible.

This is a great place for a French Drain

 

The need for Drainage Systems is increasing in Oklahoma.  During heavy thunder storms,   homes and business need a way to drain water away.  Storm water can cause many kinds of damage.  Here are just a few:

1.  Driveways and Sidewalks can crack and deteriorate

2.  Foundations can crack move or shift

3.  Vents and ducts can fill with water

4.  Mold can be allowed to grow

5.  Trees and Plants and grass can be damaged or drown

Too much water is never a good thing!

Oklahoma can quickly diagnose your Drainage Problem and provide a free quote for a Drainage System.  With twenty years of experience, we realize that Drainage Problems may be very complex and difficult or very straight forward and simple.  Every Drainage Problem is unique to a certain degree.  Don’t kid yourself,  Experience Counts!

We take many things into account when providing a Drainage Diagnostic for a Customer.  We determine:

1.  What is the Primary Water Source to the problem?  Where is the water coming from?

2.  Is there a Secondary Water Source?  Other Places that water may be coming from.    All Drainage Problems have more than one source!

3.  How many Subsequent Water Sources are present?   Some complex Drainage Problems have many water sources.

4.  What exit points are available for gravity to move water away from the problem area?  Where are we trying to take the water to, and how is it

going to be released?  Is more than one exit point possible to increase capacity?

5   How much water must be moved?  What Size Drain Pipe is necessary to lessen the chance of being overwhelmed by flooding?    This is a tough

consideration.  (Larger Pipe – Larger Cost to Install)

6 Inch French Drain Installation

 

A French Drain Can Handle Standing Water

 

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair Services all of Central Oklahoma including: Norman, Moore, Edmond, Yukon, Mustang, Oklahoma City, Midwest City, Del City, Blanchard, Newcastle, Purcell and Chickasha.

 

 

 

 

Keep water off your driveway with a channel drain

 Standing water comes from many sources.  It causes damage to  sidewalks, driveways, and foundations not to mention plants, trees, and  grass.  Does the side of your house flood because your neighbor doesn’t  have gutters, or does your sidewalk turn into a moat after a heavy rain,  or worst of all, is water seeping into your foundation and duct work  after a thunderstorm?  Theses are just a few of the Drainage  Problems that Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair can help with.  We can design a Drainage  System to fit your specific needs.  We install many types  of Drains  to solve many types of problems.    French  Drains, Surface  Drains, Channel  Drains, Basement  Drains, Trench Drains, Basin Drains, and Sump  Pumps are utilized.

 

 

4 Inch Drain Pipe Ready to be covered with dirt in Norman.
4 Inch Drain Pipe Ready to be covered with dirt in Norman.

Oklahoma Drainage, French Drain Installation, Sprinkler Repair, Oklahoma City, Surface Drains Too!

Posted: October 13, 2022 in French Drain Installation, oklahoma city, Oklahoma French Drain Installation, sprinkler repair
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Oklahoma French Drain Installation is where our business started in 1993.  Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair services all of Central and Western Oklahoma.

 

French Drain Installation, Oklahoma City, Surface Drains Too!

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

Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.

French Drain Installation

Oklahoma Drainage and 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.

Oklahoma Drainage –     We install French Drains, Channel Drains, Surface Drains, Sump Pumps and Sod.

If You live in Oklahoma City and water damaging your foundation, we can install a French Drain for you.

If you live in Norman and have water standing on your driveway, we can install a Channel Drain for you.

If you live in Edmond and have water flooding your basement, we can install a Sump Pump for you.

If you live in Moore and have water washing out your flower bed mulch, we can install a Surface Drain for you.

If you live in Yukon and need grass to grow, we can install Sod too!

Don’t Forget Sprinkler Repair!

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.  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.

river rock french drain install
 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 Drain Pipe. 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.

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. 

All Drainage Systems 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.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair install 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 33 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.  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.

The solution took a little “Out of the Box Thinking”.

We Installed an 8-inch metal channel drain grate across the driveway.

 

Sprinkler Repair

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair can provide the necessary expertise to handle difficult sprinkler repairs.

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.

Norman Oklahoma French Drain Installation, Sprinkler Repair

Posted: October 11, 2022 in Norman Oklahoma, Norman Oklahoma French Drain, Sprinkler Repair, sprinkler repair, Sprinkler Service
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Norman Oklahoma French Drain Installation Is the Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.

We installed a “Double 4-inch Horseshoe French Drain,” on Harrogate Avenue in Brookhaven which is in West Norman.

A Double 4-inch Horseshoe French Drain sounds complicated, but it is relatively simple.

A Double 4-inch Horseshoe French Drain?  Is that even a real thing?  Ah, yes!

This type of French Drain has Two 4-inch French Drainpipes in the bottom of the Drainage Trench instead of One.  In this application, they are placed side-by-side in the bottom of the trench instead of stacking them on top of each other.

Side-by-side placement was necessary for 2 reasons.  Fist we needed two pipes to carry a huge amount of water that would overwhelm a single pipe. 

The second reason was the lack of slope available.  The back yard was where the flooding occurred. There was very little slope from the back yard to the front.  The French Drain needed to be installed in the back yard with the water draining out through the curb in the front yard.  

Normally we would use one 6-inch Drainpipe.

Normally we would have used one Six-Inch French Drainpipe instead of 2 Four Inch Pipes.  Because there was very little slope from the back yard to the front yard.  The 6-inch Drainpipe would be too tall and stuck out of the ground.  The shorter 4-inch pipe worked well.  

Because of flooding in the customer’s back yard, we needed to move as much water as possible.  Having 2 exits instead of one in a Drainage System greatly increases the amount of water that can be moved.  

Picture this!

 The Double 4-inch French Drain went all the way around the customers back yard.  On the East side of the house, we ran Drainpipes down the side of the house heading toward the front yard.  The Drainpipes were taken across the front yard, to the curb. 

On the West side of the house, we did exactly the same thing taking Drainpipes down the West side across the front yard to the curb.

This meant that we had two drainpipes exiting out through the curb on the West side of the driveway and two Pipes exiting the curb on the East side of the driveway.

Horseshoe French Drain

A Drainage System with 2 Exits that runs from the street all the way around the house and back to the street is called a, ” Horseshoe French Drain.”    The Drainage System is shaped like a,” Horseshoe.”  This is a name that Oklahoma Drainage has, “Coined.”   We came up with this term over 30 years ago.

We were almost finished with the Drainage System installation described above, when the rain hit.  It rained very hard for a long time.  

Everything was finished except the curb outlets on both sides of the driveway.  The Drainpipe ran to the Curb, but the Curb Outlets had not been installed yet.  We had to wait till the rain stopped to cut the curbs and install the cement curb outlets.

Oh, my goodness!  The Double 4-inch Horseshoe French Drain really moved the water!

Norman Oklahoma French Drain Installation

We came back a few days later and installed the Curb Outlets.

Since we installed the Drainage System previously mentioned, our customer no longer has flooding problems in his backyard.

 

Oklahoma Drainage— 405 203 9419- Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma

Norman is where it all began for us!  In 1993 Oklahoma Drainage Installed its first French Drain in Brookhaven in Western Norman.  Since then, we have installed Drainage Systems in more than thirty Oklahoma towns and cities.  Check out List of Cities.

FRENCH DRAIN, SURFACE DRAIN, PICTURES AND INFORMATION    Standing water can cause many types of property damage ranging from foundation problems to cracked sidewalks and dead plants and shrubs.  If you have need of French Drain or Surface Drain, give us a call.  We provide free estimates for all of central Oklahoma.  

 

 

 

 

two French Drain

Norman Oklahoma French Drain Installation

 

Oklahoma Drainage 405 203 9419 — We provide:

    French Drain Installation, Surface Drain Installation, Drainage System Installation

 Norman Oklahoma French Drain Installation

Installing Trench Liner for French Drain

Installing Trench Liner for French Drain

French Drain Installation in Norman Oklahoma

Oklahoma Drainage Installs Surface Drains and French Drains.  Sometimes it is up hill in all directions from the Problem Drainage Area.  This problem can be solved by installing a Sump Pump.  When the cavity fills, the water is pumped away to the point where the water exits the drain which can be a curb outlet or a pop-up emitter.

Sump Pump Installation

Check out the photo below.  It is a dual Sump Pump System Installed in Oklahoma City.  You should consider a Sump Pump Drainage System if it is uphill in all directions from your Problem Drainage Area.

 


You should consider a Surface Drain

If you have water standing on concrete. Check out the picture above.  We installed 12″ Drain Basins with Metal Grates set in concrete.  Below, Oklahoma Drainage installed a Channel Drain all the way across a driveway.  The 12″inch Drain Basins are a better solution if there is a lot of Debris in the water on the driveway.  The Channel Drain below is a better solution if the Surface Water on the driveway is comparatively less muddy.  

Surface Drain set in concrete

channel drain driveway

Sprinkler System Checkup Norman.

Lots of things can be done to make sure your Sprinkler System is ready to go.  All the Sprinkler Zones should be checked one by one.  The sprinkler heads and valves need to be checked to see if anything needs to be adjusted or replaced.

Sprinkler System Checkup is a Service Provided by Oklahoma Drainage since 1993.

Today we did a sprinkler repair in Norman.  The sprinkler system needed a checkup.

We went through each sprinkler zone and identified several different problems.

Zone 2 had a cracked sprinkler pipe in a flower bed.

A broken Rotor Sprinkler head was found immediately.

Next, zone five look good with no problems.

Zone 6 and 7 each had a couple of pop-up spray heads that were worn out and would not pop-up.  The diagnosis and the repair took less than two hours.  Now their sprinkler system is running great!

Now is a good time to have a Sprinkler System Checkup provided by Oklahoma Drainage.

Sprinkler Systems need to be checked before winter to prevent pipes from freezing.  Sprinkler Design determines whether sprinkler lines need to be bled.  Emergency shut off valves also need to be checked and turned off for the winter.

In the Spring, all the water needs to be turned back on and all sprinkler zones and heads need to be tested.

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 provide Service for all of Central Oklahoma Including:  Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Moore, Yukon and Mustang.

Sprinkler Valves

Sprinkler Valve Replacement is a service that Oklahoma Drainage has provided Since 1993.  Recently we removed 3 Rainbird Sprinkler Valves and replaced them with new ones.  The valves had been crushed accidentally when a landscaper drove his truck across the yard.

Sprinkler System Check-Up in Edmond, Oklahoma City, Norman, and Moore.

 

 

Sprinkler System Check-Up process is very straightforward.  We run through all the Sprinkler Zones one-at-a- time from the controller. 

Sprinkler Controller

Sprinkler controllers can be a problem source.   Many times, the wires in the controller are loose or have a “Short” in one of the wires.  Sprinkler Programming can be a source of frustration.  We can help with Programming your controller.

We check all the sprinkler heads in that zone and the valves as well.

Once the Sprinkler System Checkup is Complete, we provide a Quote for what it will cost to make the needed repairs.

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

Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.  405 203 9419

 

Sprinkler Valve Replacement is a service that Oklahoma Drainage has provided Since 1993.  Recently we removed 3 Rainbird Sprinkler Valves and replaced them with new ones.  The valves had been crushed accidentally when a landscaper drove his truck across the yard.

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 provide Service for all of Central Oklahoma Including:  Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Moore, Yukon and Mustang.

First Step

First, we dug up a good working area surrounding the broken Sprinkler Valves.  Next, we cut out the broken valves and crushed PVC pipes.  Finally, PVC pipe was cut and glued with new Sprinkler Valves following the original design and configuration.  In this case the three original sprinkler valves were connected to each other inside one Valve Box.

We aren’t done yet though; two sprinkler wires must be connected to each Valve.  One sprinkler wire is the “Common Ground.”  The other wire is the power wire.  All the sprinkler wiring is connected with water-proof wire connections.

The Common Ground wire and the Individual Power Wires all come from the Sprinkler Controller.  Each Sprinkler Valve has its own power wire coming from the Controller.  All the Sprinkler Valves are Connected to the Same Common Ground Wire.

Sprinkler Valve Replacement

Oklahoma City Sprinkler Repair

Before We Finish

Before dirt can be put back around the new valves, testing must be done.  Each valve must be turned on, “one-at-a-time,” at the Controller to ensure good wire connection and functionality.  Also, the Sprinkler Valves must be checked for leaks in the PVC Pipe.

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.

Blanchard Sprinkler Repair has been provided by Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair since 1993.

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.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair can provide the necessary expertise to handle difficult sprinkler repairs.

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.

Sprinkler Head Installation

Sprinkler Wiring Repair, French Drain

Posted: October 11, 2022 in french drain, Sprinkler Checkup, sprinkler repair, sprinkler repair contractor, Sprinkler Repair Service, Sprinkler Service
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Sprinkler System Wiring Problems.  Lots of things can break, leak, or stop working with any sprinkler system.

Sprinkler Systems have underground wiring that runs from the Sprinkler Controller to the valves.  Usually, the Controller ins in the Garage or on an outside wall of the house.

A Ground wire and a power wire run from the controller to each Sprinkler Valve.  Each Sprinkler Valve is buried somewhere in the yard.  These wires run underground.

Many times, it is necessary to dig in your yard.

Sprinkler Wires get cut all the time from someone digging in the yard.

If the power wire gets cut the valve quits working.  If the ground wire gets cut all the valves quit working.

One wire may be cut, or several wires may be cut.  Sometimes all the Sprinkler Wires get cut.

Finding and Fixing Broken or Cut Sprinkler Wire takes a lot of talent and experience.  Once fixed the wire should be tested with a Voltmeter.

Recently we fixed a broken Sprinkler Pipe under a driveway in Norman.  It was leaking out onto the street every time the sprinkler system ran.   The pipe had to be removed and a new PVC pipe put in its place.

It was located on the west side of Norman in Brookhaven.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair provide 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.

 

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.

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

 

Sometimes things go wrong with sprinkler systems.

 

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

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.

 

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

Many people confuse French Drains with Surface Drains.

THIS IS NOT A FRENCH DRAIN

Surface Drain Connection

Surface Drain connected to a Transition Pipe

ALSO, NOT A FRENCH DRAIN

channel drain driveway

Channel Drain set in Driveway

THIS IS A FRENCH DRAIN

french drain under gravel

French Drain Under Gravel

Gutter to French Drain

Connecting Gutter to French Drain

A French Drain has a perforated pipe with thousands of little holes in it.  It lies in the bottom of a trench that is dug across a low area where water stands or travels across.  The dirt that was dug to make the trench is hauled away.  A trench liner is installed in the empty trench.  Next, the perforated pipe with a filter around it is put in the bottom of the trench.  Next the trench is filled with gravel witch is poured on top of the pipe, filling the trench to the surface.  This is the completed Induction Area of the French Drain.

It is not the entire French Drain, Only part of it.  There are two other parts.  The TRANSITION Stage and the EXIT.  I will talk about these stages next two blogs.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair now Installs Sod.  We can deliver or deliver and Install Fescue or Bermuda by the Pallet.  Each Pallet covers roughly 450 square feet.  We service all of Central and Western Oklahoma.  Give us a call at 405 203 9419.

new back yard sod

Fescue in the back yard.

Fescue sod in Edmond

Fescue Sod installed in Edmond

sod installed

Oklahoma French Drain Contractor, OKC French Drain Repair.

Posted: February 14, 2021 in french drain, French Drain Contractor, oklahoma city, Oklahoma City French Drain, Oklahoma French Drain Contractor
Tags: , ,
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Oklahoma City French Drain Contractor is a Title that we have maintained for over 30 years.  Oklahoma Drainage has provided this service for all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.  We do more work in Oklahoma City than any place else. 

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

French Drain

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

 

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.

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 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 26 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.  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.

Decorative French Drain and Channel Drain

Decorative French Drain Connected to Channel Drain

The solution took a little “Out Of The Box Thinking”.

Channel Drain

We Installed an 8-inch metal channel drain grate across the driveway.  But with no channel drain underneath.  A large channel drain could not handle the water volume that we were dealing with.  Instead of installing a channel drain underneath the grate, we cut completely through the driveway concrete and installed two 6 inch French Drains stacked on top of each other underneath the Channel Drain Grate.

This took place in July of 2017.  Since then not a drop of water has reached the garage.

We put two French Drains under a larger version of a drain that looks like the above picture.

Drainage Systems

Drainage Systems can be made up of one drain or a combination of many drains.   Problems 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.

Drainage System Installation, Gutter Down Spouts Connected.

Installed French Drain

French Drain Installed, Water is gone, just need to clean the mud off the sidewalk

 

French Drains can utilize several types and sizes of French Drainpipe.  An older type that is not commonly used any more is 4 inch PVC Pipe with large half inch holes drilled in the Pipe.  This doesn’t work very well,   Because the holes are too large and the number of holes in the French Drain Pipe are too few.  Also there is no filter or “Soc” around this particular French Drain Pipe.  If it is used in sandy or loose soil the holes will clog and the pipe will fill up with sand.  PVC French Drainpipe should be avoided.

ADS French Drain Pipe

ADS French Drain Pipe is much better, the holes are smaller and much more numerous.  It also comes inside a soc that acts as a filter and helps keep sand and debris out of the French Drain Pipe.  It works very well.

For Small business and Residential French Drains, Four inch ADS Perf/Soc French Drainpipe is adequate and the most common.  It is used for the majority of all French Drains installed.  French Drains can be installed using 3 inch ADS Perf/Soc but many times it is too small and can be overwhelmed by a heavy rain or from a bad design.  (Too many gutters down spouts connected directly into the French Drain, For Example) Three Inch French Drainpipe should be avoided if possible.

6 Inch Pipe

Six-inch ADS Perf/Soc French Drainpipe is usually a good idea when possible.  It carries a much larger volume of water.  Six Inch French Drains are rarely overwhelmed.

Installing Gravel on top of a 6 inch French Drain
Installing Gravel on top of a 6 inch French Drain

The Drawbacks to 6 inch French Drain installation are:

 1.  The Materials Cost is higher for six-inch French Drain Compared to Four Inch Pipe.                                                                                                   

2.  Many times 6 Inch French Drainpipe is too large for many applications, Such as going under a fence or sidewalk.                                                 

 3.  The trench for a 6 inch French Drain must be much larger than a 4 Inch                                                                                                                   

4.  The amount of gravel or limestone or River Rock used to Cover the 6 inch French Drain is Much larger All things being considered, the performance and longevity of a 6 inch French Drain is well worth it if you are trying to protect something of value to you!

 If the higher cost and the additional labor and materials are not a problem and 6 inch French Drainpipe is not too big for what you want to do then a 6 inch French Drain would be the best.

French Drain in the sun
Bermuda Grass will soon grow over this French Drain

Blanchard Channel Drain Installation, Oklahoma City French Drain

Posted: February 11, 2021 in Channel Drain, Channel Drain Installation, Channel Drain Repair, french drain, French Drain Repair
Tags: , ,
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Blanchard Channel Drain Installation, Oklahoma City French Drain

French Drain Installation, Drainage Systems, Surface Drain, Sump pumps, –

Standing Water on a Driveway or Sidewalk can be a real pain.  Stepping out of your car into standing water is no fun.  Many times, a channel drain can solve this kind of problem.

Channel Drains are usually set in concrete.   Many times standing water requires that a new drain be set in  concrete.  This requires that the concrete be cut and removed and a drain installed in its place with new concrete around the edges.

Channel drain along wall

Channel Drain Installed against wall

Obliviously Skill, Expertise, and Experience is required to make a big cut across a driveway or sidewalk.

Oklahoma Drainage

 

If a channel drain is installed correctly, it is very strong.  A car can be driven over it.

Channel drains are of two kinds, Metal or Composite.

Metal Channel drains can be Crome, Cast Iron, or Stainless Steel.

A Composite Channel Drain is made up of very tough plastic combinations.

Composite Channel Drains seem to be the most durable and easiest to service.

Oklahoma City Channel Drain

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair

Channel Drain Installation is a primary focus for Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair.  We have been installing Channel Drains as part of Drainage Systems since 1993.   We also install Surface Drains, French Drains, and Sump Pumps to fit our customer’s needs.

NDS Grey Composite Channel Drain Running Across Driveway Connected to 4 Inch ADS Solid Drain Pipe

NDS Grey Channel Drain Running Across Driveway
in Edmond

Channel Drain Installation Is a Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We have been Installing Channel Drains set in Concrete since 1993.

Channel Drain Set in Concrete

Channel Drains can look great and be very functional and durable.

However, A Channel Drain is not an easy thing to install!  It takes a great deal of precision, Experience, and Attention to Detail.  This is Definitely Not something to allow your Landscape Company to attempt, or your Brother-In-Law!

Just because someone is skilled at pushing a mower around, doesn’t mean you should let them cut across your driveway with a concrete saw.

I get a lot of business fixing and replacing Drains of all types that were installed incorrectly by landscape companies and armatures.  Typically, they stick to messing up French Drains, but I have fixed Channel Drains that were an absolute “Train Wreck!” as well.

 

Oklahoma Drainage 405 203 9419

French Drain Installation, Channel Drain Installation Surface Drain Installation, Drainage System Installation, 

 

 

 

 

Oklahoma Drainage 

Before

cutting the driveway for a channel drain

Breaking out the cut concrete

After

channel drain driveway

 

Hard rain and flooding seem to be more common all the time.  When I started this business in 1993, having over an inch of rainfall in an hour was pretty extreme.  Now having over 4 inch an hour rainfall is not unheard of and is becoming more common.

Gutter to French Drain

Connecting Gutter to French Drain

Oklahoma Drainage has seen and dealt with virtually every possible Drainage and Standing water problem that can occur in or around your home.  With over 2000 Drainage Systems installed since 1993, we have amassed a great deal of experience.  This is help full in seeing underlying problems and secondary issues that may be hard to see at first for the ” Untrained Eye.”  This allows us to get things right the first time.  In this business

EXPERIENCE TRULY COUNTS!

Hiring your brother-in-law to put in your Drainage System or French Drain is as bad as hiring a Lawn mowing company that does landscaping and drains too?  Water can cause a huge amount of damage.  How important is your money and your home?

Is this your yard?

This is a great place for a French Drain

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair

designs and installs Drainage Systems.  Water Drainage is a big concern to homeowners and small businesses. Standing Water from Storm-Water runoff can cause all kinds of problems.  Concrete in driveways, sidewalks, and foundations can be damaged.  Prolonged Drainage Problems allow mold to occur along with deterioration to plants, trees, and property.

Just what is a “French Drain?”  Many times, people incorrectly use the phrase, “French Drain,” to apply to many different types of Drains that could be used in a Drainage System.  The term is widely used and many times incorrectly connected to “Surface Drains,” or “Channel Drains.”

A Surface Drain has a grate that sits on top of a basin.  The basin is underground.  A Drainpipe is connected underground to an outlet on the Drain Basin.  Stormwater Drains through the grate into the Drain Basin.  Once in the Drain Basin, water travels out of the basin through a Drainpipe.  The Stormwater continues downhill in an underground Drainpipe to an exit point.

THIS IS NOT A FRENCH DRAIN!

A Surface Drain may come in many different shapes or sizes.  The Drain Grate may be round or square.  Here is a picture of a common Surface Drain.

Surface Drain and Drainpipe

A Channel Drain is a type of Surface Drain, and many times is installed in concrete across sidewalks or driveways.

Channel Drain

A French Drain is completely different from a Surface Drain.  A basic French Drain consists of a Perforated Drainpipe in the bottom of a trench.  The Drainpipe should have a neoprene sock around the Perforated Drainpipe.   This is to ensure that the Drainpipe does not become clogged.

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.  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.   

Crushed Limestone

The lime-stone 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.  It also increases the cost of the French Drain and the amount of time to install it.  I install a trench liner in a French Drain Every time.

French Drain
 

Large Water Volume

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 Down-Spouts connected to it.
 
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 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.

 

 

Sump Pump connected to Channel Drain, French Drain, Servicing Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Midwest City, Moore

Posted: January 12, 2021 in Channel Drain, french drain, Sump Pump
Tags: , ,
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Sump Pump Connected to Channel Drain

 

Do you have water standing in your yard, on your driveway, on your sidewalk, in your basement, or leaking into your home?

Oklahoma Drainage – can help with the installation of a: French Drain, Surface Drain, Channel Drain, Basement Drain, Trench Drain, Basin Drain, or Sump Pump.  We will Diagnose your Drainage Problem and Design a Drainage System Just for your needs.

 

We service all of Central and Western Oklahoma.

 

Sump Pumps can be connected to French Drains.  When you have a low-lying area that needs a French Drain, but it is up-hill in all directions and there is no way for the French Drain to move water to the Exit Point, a Sump Pump can be used.

Sump Pump installation

Sump Pump Fed by a Driveway Channel Drain

Two Sizes of Sump Pumps

Pump Size refers to how powerful it is not how physically large it is.  For Home or Small Business use a 1/3 Horse or a 1/2 Horse Works Best.  Larger Pumps such as a 1 Horse Pump must be ordered by a supplier and must be Hard Wired to 220 voltage by an electrician.

 

Installing concrete channel drain

Setting the concrete around the channel drain

Sump Pump Drain Cavity Connected to Channel Drain

Sump Pump Connected to Channel Drain


Oklahoma City French Drain Installation, Norman, Edmond, Midwest City

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 32 years, we have installed French Drains to keep water away from home and business foundations. Surface Drains can keep water away from sidewalks and driveways. Trench Drains, and French Drains to keep standing water out of flowerbeds and yards. a

French Drains

can be installed by themselves, or as part of a Drainage System that uses other French Drains, Surface Drains, or other Drain combinations. 

Typically, a French Drain is used to protect a broad area that has a lot of standing water.  A French Drain might run alongside a home’s foundation. 

If water is running toward your home underground (through sandy soil), A French Drain is the only Solution  for draining away water flowing underground.

 

6 Inch French Drain

6 Inch French Drain

 

 

French Drain Or Channel Drain

Posted: January 5, 2021 in Channel Drain, french drain
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French Drain or Channel Drain.  Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair can explain the benefits and the limitations of both.

French Drain Installation 

French Drain Installation is a central focus for Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair. French Drains solve drainage problems for areas that have large-volume water problems. This includes areas where water runs under fences or stands along driveways.

The design of a French Drain is simple. A trench is dug and the dirt is removed. A perforated drain pipe is placed in the bottom of the trench. The Drain Pipe has thousands of small holes in it and a soc filter around it to keep out debris.

French Drains and Surface Drains, What kind of pipe do you need? –

Installing french drain

Installing French Drain Under Walkway

Gravel then is placed on top of the drain.  Water travels through the gravel all along the trench.  It enters the French Drain pipe and travels down hill to the exit point.

Many people confuse a Surface Drain with a French Drain.  Below is a Surface Drain.

Surface Drains are used to drain away water in a smaller, more focused area than a French Drain.  They handle a lower water volume.  ” IF YOU NEED TO DRAIN A PUDDLE USE A SURFACE DRAIN! IF YOU NEED TO DRAIN A POND USE A FRENCH DRAIN.”

Typically French Drains don’t work well in small focused areas like walkways or small flower beds.  Surface Drains best handle those areas.

Channel Drain Installation Is a Central Focus for Oklahoma Drainage.  We have been Installing Channel Drains set in Concrete since 1993.

Channel Drain Set in Concrete

Channel Drains can look great and be very functional and durable.

However, A Channel Drain is not an easy thing to install!  It takes a great deal of precision, Experience, and Attention to Detail.  This is Definitely Not something to allow your Landscape Company to attempt, or your Brother-In-Law!

Just because someone is skilled at pushing a mower around, doesn’t mean you should let them cut across your driveway with a concrete saw.

I get a lot of business fixing and replacing Drains of all types that were installed incorrectly by landscape companies and armatures.  Typically, they stick to messing up French Drains, but I have fixed Channel Drains that were an absolute “Train Wreck!” as well.

 

 

Drainage Solutions Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Yukon, Lawton, French Drain

Posted: December 15, 2019 in french drain, French Drain Contractor, French Drain Information, French Drain Installation
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Drainage Solutions Oklahoma City

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

Servicing all of Central and Western Oklahoma since 1993.

Oklahoma Drainage and Sprinkler Repair – We have over 32 years of experience solving all types of standing water and drainage issues. 

 

Since 1993 we have installed over 2000 Drainage Systems in Oklahoma.  Over the years we have utilized French Drains, Surface Drains, and Channel Drains as important parts of Drainage Systems.

A Drainage System has 3 Parts, an “Intake” A “Transition”, and an “Exit.”

A Channel Drain is an Inlet for a Drainage System

The Intake is where water is taken into the Drainage System.  This is done with a French Drain, Surface Drain, or Channel Drain.  There may be several intakes in one Drainage System depending on the Drainage needs.

The Transition is simply the pipe that takes the water to the Exit Point.

The Exit point is the place where the water leaves the Drainage System.  Typically, through a “Pop Up Emitter” or a ” Curb Outlet.

 

Standing water

can cause many types of property damage ranging from foundation problems to cracked sidewalks and dead plants and shrubs.  If you have need of French Drain or Surface Drain, give us a call.  We provide free estimates for all of central Oklahoma.

French Drain With Colored Gravel in Oklahoma City

French Drain with Colored Gravel in Oklahoma City

 

Installing Cement around Curb Fitting for French Drain in Norman

Installing Cement around Curb Fitting for French Drain in Norman

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.

The most common Drain that we install is the French Drain.  This is because the French Drain is versatile.  It can handle Surface Water Problems or Underground Water Problems (sub-surface).  A huge mistake that many people make is assuming that water gets to a Problem Drainage Area by flowing over the surface only.  For example, if water is flowing downhill underground toward your home’s foundation, the only way to stop or intercept it is with a French Drain.  Water can flow laterally into a perforated French Drainpipe.  It is then diverted away from the Problem Drainage Area to an Exit Point.

Popup Emitter to release water from a French Drain in Yukon

Popup Emitter to release water from a French Drain in Yukon

Pop Up Emitters can release water from Surface Drains or French Drains.  They can release water on to sidewalks or driveways, or out in the middle of yards.

 

 

 

Pipe running to street form French Drain in back yard.

Pipe running to street form French drain in back yard.

When we run Drainpipe across yards to an Exit Point, the sod usually can be put back into place and in a few days you can’t tell a French Drain was ever Installed.

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.
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 French Drain.  In some cases thick grass growing up through the French Drain will create a natural “Thatch” filter.  This makes the French Drain invisible.  The trick is to allow the grass to grow over the French Drain Gravel without covering it up with dirt.

Grasses such as Bermuda

which grow well in the sun will put out runners and new roots and will grow up and through the French Drain.  This will not affect the performance of the French Drain.  The problem is that sometimes depending on the type of soil involved, it may take a long time to completely cover up the French Drain.  Sprinkling grass seed down in the gravel will speed up the process.

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.   

Installing a Curb Outlet for a French Drain in Oklahoma City

Installing a Curb Outlet for a French Drain in Oklahoma City

If you install a French Drain in a sunny area, you can:

                                         A.  Leave the French Drain as-is and allow grass to grow over it in time.
                                         B.  Add grass seed directly to the French Drain gravel with (Light Hand Watering) to speed the growth process
                                         C.  Leave the French Drain as-is but decorate it with steppingstones and landscaping rocks ( leaving large cracks between stones to allow water to get into the French Drain,
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If you install a French Drain in a shady area you can:

                                        A.  Leave the French Drain as-is, it will work well and look as it did for many years.

                                        B.  Leave the French Drain as-is, but decorate it with steppingstones or landscaping rocks.  Many French Drains are hidden under rock walkways.

French Drain in Oklahoma City

French Drain in Oklahoma City

Sometimes Surface Drains make more sense when the Drainage Problem area is fairly small with Surface Water Flowing into it.

 

French Drain with stepping stones

French Drain with steppingstones

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