LANDSCAPE
Drainage in High- Performance
By Chad Kaatz
Landscapes
When landscape construction teams overlook drainage during the early phases of a project, they are often left correcting costly mistakes after the fact. Rushed add-ons and regrading can disrupt design aesthetics and damage client trust. The smarter approach is to make drainage a core part of the planning process from day one, guiding layout, material choices and long-term site performance.
Thoughtful drainage planning opens up design flexibility and prevents limitations later. Integrating systems early lets you position elements like drains to enhance both performance and aesthetics. For example, placing a low-profile slot drain along a wall maintains clean lines and reduces the need for dramatic slope changes. That means fewer compromises in layout and fewer calls for rework once the hardscape is installed. Offering clean, design-friendly drainage solutions can also improve client approval and overall satisfaction.
Site, system and selection
Every site is unique, so assessing conditions early is critical. Soil type determines infiltration rate. Slope guides water flow. Local rainfall data tells you how much water to expect and how fast. Gathering this information up front and talking to the property owner about any known trouble areas or past flooding issues gives contractors the insight they need to design effective, efficient drainage solutions tailored to that specific environment. In some cases, well-placed drainage can even reduce the amount of grading work required.
Drainage type matters just as much as placement. Trench drains are useful for capturing surface runoff across large hardscaped areas like driveways and patios. However, the grates covering trench drains can be susceptible to damage or clogging.
Area drains are commonly found around pools or small, contained areas. They are functional before being visually appealing and can require significant grading to work well.
Slot drains are well-suited for applications around pools, water features, or areas where both aesthetics and performance matter. They can be more expensive, however, than other drainage systems.
Today’ s drainage products are engineered with both form and function in mind. A range of finishes and profiles are available to match project design. Well-integrated systems maintain the landscape’ s visual appeal without sacrificing performance.
Mistakes, materials and maintenance
Even with the right products, missteps are common. Mistakes such as underestimating water volume, skipping catch basins, installing an inadequate slope, or using low-quality materials can all undermine system performance. These issues are avoidable with proper site analysis, adherence to best practices, and the use of high-quality drainage systems that allow for easy inspection and cleaning.
Climate and soil conditions also play a significant role in determining system design and product selection. Areas with heavy rainfall need higher-capacity systems. Cold climates require materials that can withstand freeze-thaw cycles without cracking. Poorly draining soils may call for additional subsurface drainage. In all cases, stainless steel is a reliable, sustainable choice. It is frost-resistant, corrosionproof, fully recyclable, and extremely durable.
Long-term performance starts with proper installation. Following manufacturer specifications ensures correct slope, effective water flow, and durability. Include strainers to block debris and allow for clean-out access. Design
20 OPE + July 2025 www. OPE-Plus. com