What do you have in mind when we say home's plumbing? What about toilets, sinks, and other indoor fixtures? What about the outside plumbing? A drainage system is an essential component of the overall plumbing system for many homes.

Catch basins and dry wells are two common methods for residential drainage. Both have certain aspects in common, but they operate in very different ways.

What do dry wells and catch basins have in common?

Let's first discuss the similarities between these drainage systems. Both dry wells and catch basins are designed to drain water from your property. This will prevent water from leaking into your foundation and flooding your basement. You can also divert the water correctly to solve soggy areas on your lawn. The way that the systems are constructed has some similarities. Both systems can have pipes, grates, and water storage areas.

What makes a catch basin different?

A catch basin is generally placed underground at the lowest point of your property. A grate is placed at ground level that allows water to flow through but also blocks large amounts of runoff debris and leaves. The water is pumped into a concrete storage tank or plastic container. The water can then be pumped into a municipality system or released to a nearby area for evaporation.

Debris can build up in the basin over time. This can lead to a blockage or foul-smelling grate. This can be solved by periodically cleaning the basin.

What makes a dry well unique?

Dry wells are used to transport water from roofs, gutters, and paved surfaces. A dry well is a hole, which is dug into the ground. It can then be reinforced with concrete, bricks, stone or other hard materials. The hole is usually six to eight feet deep and four to ten inches wide.

Water can get into the dry well through a pipe or grate from another property. The water slowly seeps into the surrounding soil as it collects. This naturally filters out the water. Dry wells can be used as a supplement to a septic system or to fix lawn flooding. Dry wells can become clogged with leaves and other runoff debris. If your property has a high water level, it can become overwhelmed by heavy storms or other debris.

Do you think you need a drainage system for your home?

A catch basin or dry well can be a great way to improve drainage in a sloped yard.

Which one is best for you? Although catch basins and wells may look the same, they serve different purposes and have different functions. It is best to consult a drainage professional in order to find the right system for you.