What Can Go Wrong If Drainage Is Not Installed Correctly In A School
Drainage systems are often overlooked when it comes to the construction of a new school. However, these systems are an essential component of any building project. One of the most important aspects of the construction of a new building is the installation of a proper drainage system. While it may seem like a tedious step, spending a bit of extra time to ensure that the drainage system is water-proofed completely can help to save you a lot of money down the road. When the drainage system is not installed correctly, a number of problems can arise, including water intrusion and disruption of the school’s regular classes.
What is a drainage system and why is it important for schools
If you’re a school administrator, there is one maintenance task you can’t afford to overlook, and that’s installing a drainage system. This simple system of pipes, gutters, and a sump pump will help to protect your school property from damage caused by excess water. There are a few different types of drainage systems that can be installed on a school property. The type of system that is installed will depend on the size of the school and the amount of rainfall or snowfall that the school receives.
Storm Sewers
One type of drainage system is a storm sewer system. They’re designed to collect run-off from things like roofs and pavement. Run-off is basically water that washes off a large surface and collects at the lowest point. Stormwater drains can be large, underground tunnels where most of the run-off is collected and transported to other water bodies that are far away. Those are usually brooks and rivers. Smaller stormwater drains are often located under roadways and pathways.
French Drains
A French drain is a specially constructed trench in which collectors are placed. This type of drain is used in areas that have water pooling on the surface or in the subsurface of the ground. The collectors of the system are placed in the trench and the drain tile is placed on top of these collectors. The drain tile carries the accumulated water to a nearby ditch or culvert. French drains are used around buildings where run-off water can otherwise cause erosion and damage to foundations.
It is important to consult with a professional drainage company in London, or wherever it is your school is, before deciding which type of system is best. They will be able to take into consideration the size of the school and the amount of rainfall or snowfall that the school receives.
What are some of the potential problems that can occur if drainage is not installed correctly in a school
As with any building, the structure of a school is vital to its longevity. Additionally, the health of students and staff is a top priority, which is why the best practices of school design consider how water moves away from the building. Water management is especially important because of the amount of water that can be generated by daily activities. Whether it’s from rain or snow, run-off can quickly cause flooding if a drainage system is not in place. This can not only damage the building itself, but can also create a hazardous environment for students and staff. In addition, standing water can attract pests and create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and viruses.
Proper drainage systems are important for schools because of the potential for property damage. Flooding can ruin carpeting, plaster, and furniture, and can even lead to mould growth. These repair costs can be significant, and can often be avoided by simply having a well-designed drainage system in place. The key is to make sure that water is able to flow out of the building to ensure only clean water enters. One way to do this is to use a sump pump. There are other factors to consider, such as the size of the surface area, the arrival rate of the run-off, the slope of the property, and the pipe’s diameter.
It’s important to keep in mind that your school’s safety is always top priority, especially when it comes to outdoor space. There are other major issues that come from poor drainage outside the school, specifically surrounding safety and emergency procedures. If water pools outside the building, emergency vehicles may have a hard time navigating the area in the event of an emergency, leading to a dangerous situation. There are a lot of elements that go into the drainage system of a school, and it’s important to know what they all are.
What should you do if you encounter any of these problems
Whenever your own school’s drainage system is causing trouble, it’s important to contact a specialist right away. It might be as simple as a blocked drain or as complicated as a damaged pipe that’s draining too much water. A qualified drainage specialist will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, it may be necessary to completely overhaul the drainage system in order to solve the issue. In other cases, a simple repair may be all that’s needed. Either way, it’s important to get the problem fixed as soon as possible in order to avoid any further damage to your school.
So, what have we learned?
In summary, it’s important to have a well-designed drainage system in place to protect your school from flooding, property damage, and other potential problems. Consult with a professional to ensure that your school is properly equipped to handle the water generated by daily activities. By taking these precautions, you can avoid costly repairs and create a safe and healthy environment for your students and staff. Thanks for reading!