Although few people pay attention to their operation, drain inlets play a very important behind-the-scenes role in providing an efficient and practical solution for areas where flooding has been or could potentially become a problem. Your local paving contractors in Santa Rosa, CA have put together this guide to help you better understand just what the drain inlet installation process involves, as well as some of the most common instances in which they are used.
Where are drain inlets used?
Inlets are designed to give excess water an area to pass through and collect so that it doesn’t pool and lead to flooding. Before the water runoff makes its way to the storm drain, proper inlet protection will give the sediment and debris an area to settle safely. The most common instances in which inlets are used include residential streets, parking lots and even golf courses. Inlets are particularly useful in subdivision neighborhoods, where the water runoff volume is high, but the solutions for what to do with this excess water are limited. Inlet installation is also recommended for businesses that have invested in parking lot paving, as the inlet structure can help prolong the life of the pavement.
Proper drainage and removal of storm water is a matter of safety as well. Parking lots and residential streets that have too much standing water can create frustrating traffic jams due to muddy conditions that can be difficult for multiple cars to navigate.
Installation tips
An inlet installation project can be a large and complex undertaking, and is often best left to the professionals. The area for the inlet installation will need to be excavated, and the bedding must be firmly compacted once cleared. You will also need to make sure that the area that is to be cleared doesn’t contain any utilities or lines for local power or water companies.
Because the inlet plays such a vital role in helping to prevent flooding in residential neighborhoods, the measurements will need to be precise and exact. The inlet must lay flat and flush with the gutter to be effective, as any gaps that exist will allow openings for the sediment to pass through to the storm drain. Not only will this eventually create quite the mess for the drains, but this may make the inlet non-compliant with local sewer system regulations as well.
Whether your pavement has degraded over time due to a lack of sufficient inlet drainage, or your new inlet has just been completed and you need a fresh layer of asphalt or concrete to complete the project, make sure you give our team at Sikes Asphalt Group Inc. a call. No matter what type of paving your job may entail, it is our mission to make sure that your project is completed with precision and the utmost professionalism. Contact us today to arrange a consultation to learn more about all of the ways we can help to make your DIY drain installation in Santa Rosa, CA a success.
