What is a Catch Basin & How Do They Work?

Understanding Catch Basins: Function, Design and Types

Catch basins, also known as storm drains, are an important part of many landscaping and road systems, draining excess water into reservoirs, sumps or sewage facilities. Most catch basins drain water using a grate and pipe. This pipe is connected to a larger plumbing system, which carries stormwater and other runoff away from properties and into sewer systems.

In the following blog, AQUALIS’ stormwater management experts will further discuss a catch basin’s purpose, along with how a catch basin and stormwater interact. There are many types of catch basins, so you’ll find the question “What is a catch basin?” to have a unique set of answers.

What is the Purpose of a Catch Basin?

A catch basin drains stormwater and directs it to a sewer system. While a catch basin is a drainage system, it’s also a trap for debris. Catch basins are designed to stop trash, leaves, dirt and other items from clogging underground pipes. Clogged pipes can lead to widespread flooding and community health hazards. Catch basins are one of the first lines of defense against this.

Key Components of Catch Basins

Most catch basins are composed of four parts. A catch basin’s stormwater drainage capabilities rely on the following:

• Grate/Cover: A catch basin’s grate blocks large debris from entering the drainage system. It is also a community safety mechanism, preventing animals and small children from falling into the drain.
• Basin: Stormwater runoff collects in the basin before moving into the drainage system. 
• Debris Basket: Not all catch basins have a debris basket, but this component traps small debris like leaves, nuts and dirt to prevent clogs and blockages. 
• Outlet Pipe: After water collects in a basin, an outlet pipe directs that water into the drainage system. Outlet pipes ensure that a catch basin doesn’t clog and overflow. 

The Advantages & Disadvantages of Catch Basins

Advantages

A catch basin’s stormwater management abilities can increase your property value and prevent costly weather-related issues. Let’s highlight some specific benefits of using a catch basin drainage system:

• Protects Your Landscaping: Heavy rain and flooding can tarnish your property’s landscaping in just one day if a reliable drainage system is not installed. A well-placed catch basin solves this issue by directing excess water out of the area. 
• Higher Property Resale Value: Catch basins prevent frequent flooding and landscape damage. This environmental security is a huge plus for potential buyers and stakeholders. 
• Prevention of Puddles and Flooding: Standing water and frequent flooding are not only environmental hazards, but they are also leading causes of property damage. This makes catch basins an important investment for property owners and developers nationwide.

Disadvantages

Due to their nature as the first line of defense against stormwater pollutants, catch basins experience regular wear and tear. Especially when not regularly maintained, catch basins may fail.  

• Occasional Clogs from Debris: Catch basins are designed to collect debris, this debris must be regularly removed to allow for proper stormwater flow. If a catch basin takes too long to drain stormwater and too much debris is caught inside, the outlet pipe can become clogged. A clogged outlet pipe will push water back into the basin, leading to flooding on your property. 
• Danger of Sinkholes: If the pipes below a catch basin begin to fail, a sinkhole may surface above ground. This is a serious problem, but it can be fixed with professional assistance. 
• Attracts Insects: Insects, pests and bacteria share a common love for moist areas. That love is amplified when you crank up the heat, making summer a time of concern for catch basins. If standing water stays inside a catch basin for too long, and if it heats up, it can become a breeding ground for vermin. If your catch basin has standing water, it is not functioning correctly.

What Are the Different Types of Catch Basins?

Catch basins can be divided into several contrasting types, so let’s compare curb inlets vs. area inlets and Type 1 through 3 catch basins.

Curb Inlet & Area Inlet

You will often find curb inlets on roads and highways, specifically where the roadway meets a sidewalk or pedestrian area. Curb inlets will likely be made of concrete and be covered with a cast iron grate. Area inlets, on the other hand, are often used beside driveways, parking lots and landscaping. Inlet basins will either be made of high-impact plastic or cast iron and concrete.

Catch Basin Types 1-3

On to Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 catch basins. Each type is designed to handle a different volume of water, with Type 1 being the lowest volume and Type 3 being the largest volume. A Type 3 catch basin’s purpose is to handle excessive water runoff, so it is often used in industrial and commercial settings where effective water management is a key focus. 

Catch basin standards vary from state to state, so it is important to find the right catch basin to meet your stormwater management needs and government regulations/DOT specifications.

Preventing Drainage Issues with Regular Catch Basin Maintenance & Repairs

As with any stormwater management system, catch basins must be regularly maintained. If a catch basin is neglected, it will eventually fail to transfer stormwater and runoff away from your property. Instead, standing water and flooding will become commonplace, causing health concerns and property damage. Be sure to check for cracks and structural damage when inspecting your catch basin.

The Importance of Catch Basins, Inlets and Drains in Flood Prevention

Catch basins work in tandem with other parts of your stormwater management system to ensure your property is protected from flooding, property damage and standing water. As with any complex system, if you remove one crucial part, the system’s goals are not properly met. 

With AQUALIS’ stormwater management experts by your side, you won’t have to worry about the side effects of standing water and flooding. Our catch basin repair team is committed to helping your systems run smoothly, preserving your property value and meeting government regulations. 

We can also help you develop stormwater management plans to guarantee an environmentally friendly, financially sound future. Together, we’ll make a difference nationwide.

Stormwater Catch Basins & Storm Drains FAQs