Ensuring Water Protection for Structures: A Comprehensive Guide

In regions prone to heavy rainfall, the risk of water damage to structures rises significantly, especially when the water table surges. Unchecked water ingress can lead to corrosion, particularly in the reinforcement steel bars, which, once rusted, can compromise the structural integrity.

Addressing Proximity to Water:

There are instances where a structure must be situated near water, necessitating the design of a fully waterproof facility. In this article, we will delve into the essential provision of a comprehensive drainage system and discuss the construction process of such facilities.

Components of a Drainage Facility:

Efficient drainage typically comprises four key elements:

Filter System:

• Prevents seepage erosion during heavy rainfall.

Conduit System:

• Consists of perforated pipes directing water to a collection chamber.

Collector Chamber:

• Gathers water from perforated pipes for further management.

Disposal Unit:

• Pipes leading water away, either by gravity flow or through an external pumping system.

Construction Techniques for Efficient Drainage:

1. Foundation Drains:

Addressing Water Table Rise:

• When the water table approaches or surpasses the foundation level, foundation drains become crucial.

Mechanism:

• Utilizes a filter system attached to perforated pipes to prevent seepage erosion.

2. Blanket Drains:

Handling Basement Seepage:

• Installed to counter water intrusion beneath basement floor slabs.

Mechanism:

• Employs two filter layers against variable hydraulic pressure, leading water to a collection chamber.

3. Interceptor Drains:

Highway and Runway Applications:

• Parallel construction to shoulders, reducing water movement beneath the pavement base.

Effectiveness:

• Keeps subgrade and base soil dry, preventing excess pore water pressure and seepage erosion.

4. Drain Away Panels:

• Addresses moisture penetration through foundation walls during subsurface water flow.

Two-Sided Panels:

• Inner concrete layer with plastic membrane, used in foundations, retaining walls, tunnels, etc.

One-Sided Panels:

• Geotextile layer on one side, suitable for horizontal protection in rooftop decks, gardens, etc.

Conclusion:

Implementing a robust drainage system is vital for structures exposed to water challenges. The careful integration of foundation drains, blanket drains, interceptor drains, and drain away panels ensures effective water management, safeguarding the longevity and stability of the structure.