8 Basement Drainage System Types

There are several types of basement drainage systems, each designed to manage water that enters the basement and direct it away from the foundation to prevent water damage and flooding. Here are the most common types of basement drainage systems:

  1. Interior French Drain System:

    • This is one of the most popular basement drainage systems. It consists of a perforated pipe installed along the interior perimeter of the basement floor, typically next to the foundation walls.
    • The pipe is surrounded by gravel, which allows water to flow into the drainage system.
    • Water is collected into the French drain and directed towards a sump pump for removal from the basement.

  2. Exterior French Drain System:

    • Similar to the interior French drain, the exterior French drain is installed along the exterior perimeter of the foundation, just below the ground level.
    • The drain is also composed of a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel.
    • This system collects water before it reaches the foundation walls, effectively diverting it away from the basement.

  3. Interior Basement Drainage Channel:

    • This system involves installing a drainage channel along the basement floor, adjacent to the foundation walls.
    • The channel collects water that seeps through the walls or enters through cracks and directs it towards a sump pump.

  4. Baseboard Basement Drainage System:

    • A baseboard drainage system consists of a hollow baseboard that is installed along the perimeter of the basement walls.
    • Water enters the baseboard through weep holes, and it is then channeled to a sump pump or a floor drain for removal.

  5. Basement Wall Membrane System:

    • This system involves installing a waterproof membrane on the interior basement walls.
    • The membrane acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water from seeping through the walls and directing it downwards towards a drainage system.

  6. Floor Drain:

    • Floor drains are installed directly in the basement floor to collect water that enters the basement.
    • The collected water is then directed towards a sump pump for removal.

  7. Exterior Drainage System:

    • In addition to exterior French drains, other exterior drainage systems include downspout extensions, gutters, and grading to direct water away from the foundation.

  8. Box Type Waterproofing:

    • As mentioned earlier, box type waterproofing is an interior waterproofing system that uses bentonite clay panels and drainage boards to prevent water infiltration through the basement walls.
    • Any water that penetrates the clay is directed downward to the basement drainage system.

Each type of basement drainage system has its advantages and is suitable for different basement conditions and water intrusion issues. A professional basement waterproofing contractor can help determine the most appropriate drainage system for your basement based on its unique characteristics and ensure that your basement remains dry and protected from water damage.