A good system for managing stormwater is essential for your commercial property. The water needs somewhere to go. Otherwise, drainage issues could damage your building or the surrounding community. Whether building a new property or working on improvements for your current property, don’t underestimate the importance of commercial drainage services in New Jersey.
These systems are designed to handle water during and after a storm. The goal is to not only protect your property but also ensure that the water ends up in the right location without polluting the water supplies in the area.
Here are five important steps that should be followed when you are working on commercial drainage services in New Jersey.
1. Conduct a Site Assessment
In order to design the ideal solutions for your property, it’s essential to evaluate the site and determine what is needed. This site assessment is the first preparatory step for commercial drainage.
We provide in-depth site assessment solutions, including camera inspections to see what is happening in the current drainage systems. If necessary, soil testing and other evaluations can be done to give us a better idea about the current conditions.
We will look at water damage that has already occurred due to current water issues and then determine solutions to prevent water damage and flooding again in the future. The goal is to determine what type of water drainage system is necessary for your property. At the same time, we can be proactive about designing a system with simple upkeep when it is time for regular maintenance.
2. Create a Plan for the Drainage System
Once we understand the specific issues being addressed with your commercial drainage needs, it’s time to create a plan. Our team offers personalized solutions for every property owner, giving you the confidence in knowing that this plan is custom-designed to the unique needs and features of your property.
Our experts will offer recommendations for the ideal solutions. We always work hand-in-hand with property owners, architects, and engineers to consider the best solution that works with your preferences, budget, and other factors that need to be taken into consideration. The goal is to create a long-lasting system that works now and will maintain durability for many years in the future.
3. Select the Right Drainage System
Each site is unique, which is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for commercial drainage services in New Jersey. We work with property owners in determining the ideal drainage systems based on the layout and unique considerations for the property. Additionally, our team can collaborate with other contractors supporting the project.
The most common types of commercial drainage systems include:
- French Drains: These systems are designed to subtly drain lawns and grass using a trench and perforated piping. The pipes aren’t visible; they are usually covered with gravel to help with drainage. If you want to hide the drain completely, then there is an option to place topsoil and grass over the French drain system.
- Trench Drains: These commercial drainage systems can be used for both indoor and outdoor draining in commercial buildings. They are ideal for flat surfaces like parking lots, driveways, or loading docks. A channel gathers the water and redirects it to a perforated gate. Standing water can collect in this large, flat area without proper drainage.
- Siphonic Drains: These systems are designed for commercial buildings with flat roofs. A baffle is placed on top of the system to prevent air from going into the system. Since the drains have lower atmospheric pressure, they can pull the water in faster. The water moves into the drain and then is redirected out of the building or through a storm basin.
- Grading: Don’t underestimate the importance of good grading to manage water runoff. Consider how the grounds around the building are laid out. If necessary, make changes to the grading and/or landscaping so the water slopes away from your property instead of towards the foundation.
- Gutters: When the roof is slanted, gutters can be an effective solution for your commercial drainage needs. The purpose is to catch the water in the gutters so it doesn’t run off the roof and affect the foundation below. The water runs through the gutters until it reaches a downspout. This system makes it easy to move the water wherever you want it to go for drainage.
4. Invest in Maintenance
Not only do you need commercial drainage services, but ongoing maintenance also ensures that your systems are always working properly. If you own a commercial building, mark your calendar to hire experts for inspection and maintenance services for all your drainage systems. This proactive approach helps you stay ahead of any potential issues and prevent flood and water damage to your building.
5. Consult with a Professional in Stormwater Management
At Mikula Contracting, we are here to help with commercial drainage services in New Jersey. Please note that here at Mikula we can handle the installation of your drainage system however you will need to receive plans from an architect or engineer for our team to make that happen. If you are interested in more information, then reach out to our team to schedule a consultation.
