Curbs on Storm-Water
Curbs on Storm-Water
In Commercial Building Properties
In order to preserve the integrity of commercial buildings' foundations, water drainage at the curb is essential. Water can pool close to the foundation if curbs and related drainage systems are not appropriately directing it away from the building, which poses a number of risks.
Soil Erosion and Settlement
Inadequate drainage allows water to erode supporting soils, causing uneven settlement or sinking of the foundation. This can result in structural cracks or even major shifts in the building's stability.
Accumulated water in the soil around the foundation increases hydrostatic pressure on foundation walls. This lateral force can cause walls to crack, bow, or leak, and severe cases can lead to structural failure.
Wet conditions cause some soils, especially clays, to expand. When they later dry, they contract. These repeated cycles of swelling and shrinking create substantial stress on the foundation, often resulting in cracking or shifting.
Poor water drainage can lead to water intrusion into basements or lower floors, encouraging mold and biological decay—factors that diminish both building health and occupant safety.
Proper curb and surface drainage design prevent water-related issues, extending the lifespan of the foundation and reducing the need for expensive repairs.
Effective curb drainage solutions include:
Sloping surfaces/curbing to channel water away from the building
- Installing French drains or subsurface drains where needed
- Ensuring gutters, downspouts, and drain outlets discharge safely away from foundations
- Failure to manage water at the curb and adjacent areas will accelerate deterioration, potentially leading to foundation cracks, settlement, water intrusion, and increased repair costs.
- Routine inspection and maintenance of curbing and drainage structures are therefore essential to the long-term health of commercial building foundations.
Related Trends Include:
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- OSHA Compliance Inspection Services
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