Catch basins are free-standing systems designed to drain water away from parking lots, roadways, driveways, and other landscapes. Constructed of metal, plastic, or concrete, these devices reduce the risk of flooding within an area as well as protect the integral structure of the surrounding pavement or concrete.
The most common sign that a catch basin needs repairs is pooling water in and around the immediate area. Other signs to note involve sinkholes around the catch basin and/or the surface portion shifting above the pavement.
A typical catch basin repair begins with an assessment of the existing catch basin and the potential damage to the ground surrounding the catch basin Specialized equipment is used to cut and remove the encompassing asphalt to gain access to the damaged portion. Adjustment rings, concrete collars, and/or other damaged components are fixed or replaced before all connections are re-grouted. The grate is re-installed and the dismantled asphalt is replaced with new material.
The average catch basin repair project can take up to four days to complete, depending on the scope of the repairs and the extent of the damage to the catch basin.
To perform a catch basin replacement, the catch basin needs to be disconnected from the underlying piping system. Excavating the ground will allow for the damaged asphalt and catch basin to be removed before a new unit can be put in place. All underground connections will be done before the installation of the adjustment rings and concrete collars. All sections will be re-grouted and the removed soil will be restored. The new grate will be installed and new asphalt will be laid.
Catch basins and storm drains share the same purpose of removing and redirecting water runoff from the ground surface to waterways through a system of culverts and/or underground pipes. While often used interchangeably, a storm drain is a type of catch basin.
Professionally repaired catch basins are designed to handle all environmental conditions, as long as they receive proper maintenance. Fall in Toronto often brings the wettest months of the year, with October producing an average of 85 millimetres of rainfall.
As with any asphalt repair project, the cost is determined by the extent of the damage and the amount of repairs needed to the catch basin. These factors may involve repairs to the surrounding landscape, how deep into the basin the damage is, and the overall complexity of the project.
Whether a catch basin can be repaired or needs to be replaced is dependent on the scope of damage. If a catch basin can be repaired, it usually involves a complete rebuild, overhaul of the upper portion, or replacement of the asphalt ring. The latter entails expanding the depth and diameter of the vent hole for resizing. However, if the catch basin is severely damaged, it might be more effective and cost-efficient to do a total replacement.
Our technician at Sure-Seal will assess the scope of the damage before removing the surrounding asphalt for excavation work. Damaged rings or pup sections will be removed and replaced, and an additional two to three inches of height will be added for the proper elevation for drainage. The new base material is then added and compacted before the frame and grate is re-installed. Additional gravel and dirt are graded before the application of new asphalt layers.
Catch basin repairs can be performed on all types of materials including concrete, metal, and asphalt.
To prevent potential damage and improper drainage, a professional contractor should perform all catch basin repairs and replacements. The time, materials, labour, and specialized equipment needed make a catch basin repair a complex project.
Neglecting repairs can cause the catch basin to clog and water to pool on the surface of the pavement, both of which can eventually lead to the catch basin and surrounding asphalt needing to be replaced. Legally, commercial property owners must adhere to municipal bylaws that protect the local environment from adverse conditions caused by neglected catch basin maintenance and repairs.
All catch basins should be thoroughly inspected by a trained professional at least twice a year. Ideally, this should occur in the early Spring and late Fall. The exterior should be inspected for cracks or damages, while the interior should be checked for any structural issues on the sidewalls. The water level should also be below the inlet pipe.
A professionally repaired catch basin does improve the efficiency of a drainage system on a property as it directs the water from the surface of the pavement or land to a connecting waterway.
Yes, catch basin repairs can not only save you time and money, but they can also prevent the damaged sections from expanding and getting worse, thus resulting in a complete system replacement. Regular catch basin cleaning can also reduce the need for replacement.
We offer a seven-year structural warranty for all catch basin repair work.