What Are Catch Basins? – Do I Need a Catch Basin?

You may need a stormwater catch basin as the solution to a soggy lawn and wet basement or foundation after a rainfall. They are receptacles for water runoff and typically connect to the municipal stormwater system providing a reliable drainage solution for business or home properties. Catch basin installations and regular maintenance of cleaning and repairs are done by a drainage contractor.

The close proximity of properties often creates drainage issues in low-lying areas. Impermeable hardscaping, such as blacktop and concrete, covers much of the former greenspace.

The efficiency of a city lies in its shared services. Keeping the footprint closely spaced saves the municipality money. London, Ontario, is a city in a topographical basin. As a result, it is more susceptible to water accumulation and drainage challenges. Our properties’ lack of green space results in excess water concerns depending on property specifics. 

In a best-case scenario, swaths of greenspace on every property would allow heavy rainfalls and spring thaws to percolate through the soil layers gradually. Most properties don’t have this available. Therefore, solutions have been engineered to combat the dangers of flooded basements, including those of both your property and your downhill neighbor.

Stormwater catch basins can be tailored to your property’s needs.

Different size basin receptacles are available, and depending on the expanse of your property and its areas and amounts of flooding, two catch basins may make the best sense. They are environmentally friendly, effective and dependable, and they must be regularly cleaned using a Jet/Vac truck to remove sediments, waste, or solids. 

Catch basins help your water system by filtering excess water on your property and acting as a holding container that diverts the water to your street’s water drainage system. 

Household catch basins consist of a one-foot box with a heavy-duty grate and filter. 

More extensive facilities and parking lots require larger catch basins with a concrete receptacle. 

Best Plumbing and Drainage Contractors serve a varied clientele. We provided catch basin installations and cleaning (using a powerful Jet/Vac truck.) Our dedication to a job correctly done and our promise of professional customer service earns the praise of homeowners, small businesses, and extensive business entities like the City of London and London Hydro.

Contact us online or call (519) 438 6565 with questions about catch basins. We provide affordable maintenance programs.

Pros of catch basins:

• Help prevent flooding of your lower levels in your home. See also basement waterproofing and sump pumps.
• Make sure your lawn and property drain properly. 
• A home with a stormwater catch basin increases in value.

Cons of catch basins:

• Cleaning must be done, sometimes by you, or in many cases, by an affordable Jet/Vac service.
• The immediate area around it might be subjected to overflow during a heavy rainfall. However, with proper drainage, you can mitigate this risk and prevent further issues. Additionally, maintaining the drainage system can ensure long-term effectiveness.

How do you know a catch basin is what you need?

If your yard is constantly wet and impeding the property’s enjoyment. It isn’t necessarily a negative aspect if your property allows for an area of natural marshiness away from the house. In fact, this can serve as a beneficial natural habitat for wildlife. However, this is only possible if there is enough space and municipal rules permit it. Additionally, proper management of the area can enhance its value as a wildlife habitat.

If like most of us, you live in the city with a mid-sized property close to other neighbours, you may already have drainage woes. If you notice standing water near your house, or you already feel concerned about your wet basement, a stormwater catch basin will help those problems. 

Adding a sump pump and exterior waterproofing of your structure or home will relieve you of any future problems. Mould spores breathed in are a genuine health concern. Read our article, Is it Hard to Waterproof Older Buildings?

Why call a drainage contractor; can you call a plumber instead?

There are some critical differences between a plumbing contractor and a drainage contractor. Best Plumbing and Drainage Contractors is both. Read our article, What is the Difference Between a Plumber and a Drainage Contractor?

With access to the data on the peak flow rate of stormwater in your area, we will help you determine the size of the catch basin you need and provide you support to better maintain your catch basin.