Catch Basin vs. French Drain in the Parking Lot: Which is Better?

Catch Basin vs. French Drain in the Parking Lot: Which is Better?

A drainage system for your parking lot isn’t an option. It’s a necessity. This is particularly true if there are low-lying spots that can collect stormwater. With a drainage system, you can remove stormwater out of the parking lot, extend its lifespan, and protect against the costs that come with unsafe conditions. 

So which drainage system is right for your parking lot? It depends on a number of conditions, including the intensity of rainfall, the frequency of storms, the existing surface damage, parking lot usage, and your budget.

While there are many types of drainage systems for parking lots, two of the most common include catch basins and french drains. Keep reading to find out how each one works so you can choose the ideal system for your unique situation. 

Catch Basins

A catch basin catches and holds runoff water that comes from french drains. It’s installed at the lowest point of your parking lot and acts like a grate that covers an underwater tank and connects to underground storm sewers.

In addition to draining the standing water off the parking lot, it also filters waste and debris so that it can’t seep into the drainage system. With a french drain and a catch basin, you can transfer water away from your parking lot, drain it properly, and prevent further damage.

French Drains

A french drain is made up of pipes that are installed in a low lying trench covered with rocks and a fabric barrier. The pipes collect excess groundwater and channel it away from the area with flooding. Once the standing water heads down into the underground trench, the tubing will collect and feed it into a catch basin. Draining this water can allow you to reduce the risk of asphalt damage, which is a common issue in many parking lots.

Compared to other parking lot drainage systems, a french drains are the most attractive. It comes with a trench filled with gravel that may come with perforated pipes placed on a slope to facilitate the flow of water. If the surface water on low spots is an ongoing concern, a french drain is certainly worth considering.

Benefits of Parking Lot Drainage Systems

Here are several of the many reasons these parking lot drainage systems should be on your radar.

Drain Excess Water

Flooding can wreak havoc on your parking lot. WIth a catch basin and/or french drain, you can get rid of the pooling water and address any issues that it’s already caused.

Protect Your Asphalt

Over time, accumulated water will erode your parking lot and cause cracks as well as foundation damage. This can lead to safety concerns for drivers who use your lot.

Easy Maintenance

As long as they’re installed professionally, catch basins and french drains are a breeze to maintain. Best of all, they can last for years to come.

Increase Property Value

Excess water and flooding can reduce the value of your parking lot. By installing a drainage system, like a catch basin and french drain, you can make the most out of your investment and receive top dollar for it in the event you decide to sell.