A Strategic Drainage Solution for a Warehouse.
A newly acquired warehouse should be an asset, not a headache—but after heavy rains, our client quickly realized they had a serious drainage issue. One side of the warehouse was experiencing localized flooding, leaving the surrounding soil totally waterlogged.
At first glance, the downspouts were installed correctly, but the water had nowhere to go. After a thorough assessment, we discovered two key issues:
- No Internal Roof Drains – The roof relied entirely on external downspouts to handle stormwater runoff.
- Uneven Water Distribution – The roof’s pitch directs excessive water to one area, overwhelming the ground’s ability to absorb it.
Ignoring the problem wasn’t an option. Pooling water near a warehouse foundation can lead to structural damage, erosion, and long-term maintenance nightmares. Our client needed a reliable, cost-effective solution.
The Solution.
We proposed two possible solutions, each with different price points and levels of intervention:
Option 1: A straightforward approach—connecting a pipe to the downspouts and directing the water to the nearest inlet. While this solution would move water away from the problem area, it wouldn’t fully address the volume issue or provide long-term resilience.
Option 2: A more comprehensive strategy—redirecting water in two different directions to ensure proper drainage…
Rear Section: Downspouts were connected to underground piping that led to a 4’ seepage pit, allowing for controlled water absorption.
Front Section: Downspouts were connected to a pipe that discharged water into a ballast swale, effectively channeling excess runoff to an existing outlet.
After weighing the pros and cons, they proceeded with Option 2 to provide a long-term, effective solution.
The Result.
With the plan executed as outlined in our sketches, the only thing left to do was wait for the next heavy rain. When the storm arrived, we were ready—and so was the drainage system. The water flowed precisely as designed, eliminating the localized flooding and protecting the integrity of the warehouse.
Proactive problem-solving makes all the difference in real estate. A minor drainage issue today can turn into a significant structural problem tomorrow. By assessing the root cause and implementing a targeted solution, we helped our client protect their investment and prevent future headaches.”
Proactive problem-solving makes all the difference in real estate. A minor drainage issue today can turn into a significant structural problem tomorrow. By assessing the root cause and implementing a targeted solution, we helped our client protect their investment and prevent future headaches.
If you’re facing drainage or site challenges, let’s talk. The right solution is out there—you just need the right team to find it. Contact us at horganbuilds.com/build-with-us
