Dry Wells Calgary Installation
Dry Wells Calgary Installation: A Complete Guide to Effective Drainage Solutions
In Calgary, managing excess water is essential for preventing water pooling, foundation damage, and soil erosion. One of the most efficient ways to tackle this is by installing a dry well. A dry well is a subsurface structure designed to collect and disperse water back into the ground, providing a long-term drainage solution. Whether it's to manage rainwater runoff, prevent basement flooding, or reduce water damage, dry wells offer an excellent solution for both residential and commercial properties.
What is a Dry Well?
A dry well is essentially a large underground container or pit filled with gravel or a plastic tank, designed to collect and slowly release water into the surrounding soil. It helps prevent surface water from pooling, especially during heavy rain, by diverting it underground.
Dry Well Sizes and Capacities
When choosing a dry well size for your property, it's essential to consider both the volume of water to manage and the space available for installation. Dry wells come in various sizes, which influence their capacity and the amount of excavation needed for installation.
Small Dry Wells
Dimensions: Typically around 2 feet in diameter and 3 feet deep.
Capacity: Holds about 50 to 100 gallons of water.
Excavation Needed: This size requires approximately 12 to 14 cubic feet of soil to be excavated.
Ideal for: Managing small amounts of runoff from one or two downspouts or small patio areas.
This size is perfect for residential properties with limited space or areas that don’t experience significant rainfall. The smaller footprint means it can fit in tighter spaces like side yards or under grassy patches near the house.
Medium Dry Wells
Dimensions: Approximately 3 feet in diameter and 4 feet deep.
Capacity: Holds around 150 to 300 gallons of water.
Excavation Needed: Excavating for a medium dry well will require roughly 28 to 35 cubic feet of soil.
Ideal for: Homes with larger roofs, driveways, or multiple downspouts that need to manage a higher volume of water.
This size works well under shrub beds or open grassy areas where more water runoff occurs. It offers a balance between capacity and space and is ideal for most suburban properties.
Large Dry Wells
Dimensions: Typically 4 to 5 feet in diameter and 5 to 6 feet deep.
Capacity: Can hold 400 gallons or more.
Excavation Needed: A large dry well requires around 80 to 120 cubic feet of excavation.
Ideal for: Large residential estates, commercial properties, or areas with heavy rainfall.
For properties that need to handle substantial water runoff, a larger dry well provides a more robust solution. This size is often installed under gravel driveways or landscaped areas with high drainage requirements. Due to the depth and width, this type of installation may require professional equipment for excavation and installation.
Dry Well Locations: Where Should You Install Them?
The location of your dry well is crucial for effective water management. Dry wells can be installed under different surfaces, each with its own advantages depending on your landscaping and drainage needs.
1. Dry Wells Under Grass
Installing a dry well under grass is one of the most common solutions for residential properties. A grassy area provides easy access for installation and maintenance, and the lawn allows the water to percolate back into the soil naturally.
Ideal for: Diverting water from downspouts, patios, or driveways.
Advantages: Easy to maintain and aesthetically pleasing. The grass cover can naturally filter the water, reducing the risk of contamination.
Considerations: Ensure the lawn is level to avoid surface water pooling during heavy rainfall.
2. Dry Wells Under Shrub Beds
Shrub beds offer an excellent location for installing dry wells, particularly if you’re concerned about drainage issues in landscaped garden areas. The plant roots help absorb excess water, promoting healthier plant growth.
Ideal for: Handling water runoff in landscaped areas or from irrigation systems.
Advantages: Promotes deep root watering for shrubs and trees while reducing the chances of soil erosion around your plants.
Considerations: Ensure that the shrubs are not overly water-sensitive, as prolonged saturation could cause root rot.
3. Dry Wells Under Gravel
For areas with gravel or stone coverings, dry wells can be hidden beneath these surfaces, offering discreet and effective water management. Gravel helps with natural drainage, making this an excellent choice for pathways, driveways, or patios.
Ideal for: Handling excess water from driveways, paved areas, or patios.
Advantages: Gravel provides an additional layer of filtration, preventing debris from entering the dry well system and reducing maintenance needs.
Considerations: Periodically check the gravel for blockages and ensure proper grading for water flow.
Why You Need a Dry Well in Calgary
Calgary experiences a range of weather conditions, from heavy rainstorms to snowmelt, making it essential to have a robust drainage system. Dry wells are particularly useful in preventing:
Foundation Damage: By directing water away from the foundation, dry wells help reduce the risk of cracks, leaks, and water infiltration.
Basement Flooding: Homes with poor drainage systems often experience water seepage into basements. A dry well can prevent water buildup near the foundation, keeping basements dry.
Landscape Erosion: In areas with heavy water runoff, soil erosion can ruin landscaped gardens. A dry well helps manage this water efficiently, keeping your garden healthy.
Professional Dry Well Installation in Calgary
At A Green Future, we specialize in the design and installation of custom dry wells to meet your unique drainage needs. We assess your property, determine the best size and location for your dry well, and provide a solution that ensures long-term water management. Whether you need a small dry well under your lawn or a large one under a gravel driveway, we have the expertise to get the job done efficiently.
Get in Touch Today
Don’t let water damage or poor drainage affect your home or garden. Contact A Green Future for professional dry well installation services in Calgary. We’ll provide a free consultation and recommend the best solution for your property. Call us today to get started!