Think about the plumbing in your home. What images do you have? Are you thinking of toilets, bathrooms, sinks, or other indoor fixtures like dishwashers? What about outside plumbing? A drainage system is an integral part of the overall plumbing system in many homes.

Catch basins or dry wells are the two most common ways to do residential drainage. Although they share some similarities, they work in completely different ways.

What are the commonalities between dry wells and catch basins?

First, let's discuss the commonalities of the two drainage systems. Both dry wells and catch basins are intended to move water away. This can stop water from pooling on your foundation, flooding your basement, and causing further damage. It is possible to divert water from areas that are always soggy. There are some elements that are common to both systems. Both can include pipes, grates, or some other type of water storage area.

What makes a catch basin unique?

A catch basin will generally be located underground at a low spot on your property. The catch basin is located at ground level. It allows water to pass through it but blocks the passage of leaves and other large runoff debris. The water flows into a concrete or plastic storage container. The water can then be released into the nearby water source or area to evaporate or pumped into a municipal water system.

The basin can become clogged over time. Regularly cleaning out the basin will solve this problem.

What makes a dry well different?

A dry well is used to move water from roofs or gutters, paved surfaces, tanks, septic tanks, or indoor plumbing fixtures. The dry well is made by digging into the ground, then re-enforcing it with concrete, bricks, or stone. The hole measures approximately six to eight feet in depth and four to ten feet wide.

Water can be drained from pipes or grates that are connected to the property from other areas. The water seeps into the soil and is naturally filtered by the surrounding soil. Dry wells are useful for repairing lawn flooding or adding to a septic tank. Dry wells have the downside of getting clogged up with leaves and other runoff debris. They may also be overwhelmed by heavy storms and high water tables.

Is your home in need of a drainage system?

Installing a catch basin and dry well could make a significant difference to the drainage of your yard, especially if you have a sloped yard.

Which one is right? While catch basins can be compared to dry wells in many ways, they have their own unique functions and are best suited for different purposes. To determine which drainage system is right for you, it's best that you consult a professional.