How To Build A Concrete Catch Basin
A catch basin is important for proper water Management. It helps to collect water that would otherwise flood your environment. To get a proper catch basin, you will need tools like metal grate, shovels, drain pipes, sand, hammer, plywood and other necessities.
To perfectly build your next catch basin, follow the simple steps outlined here to ensure you make the best out of it. And also gets to do it the easy way without compromising on its functionality.
A Step By Step Guide To Building A Catch Basin
Building a catch basin is systematic. with these steps, you can achieve a great result.
Dig The Hole
Locate a part where the water can easily be collected and dig the hole there. You can situate this by the foundation of your house. The hole should be 32 inches wide on every side.
Create The Box
Create a box with a plywood that will serve as the interior of the catch basin. The box will have only three sides because the foundation of your house will serve as the fourth wall. Nail all sides to one another to hold them in place.
Secure The Drain Pipe
Secure the drain pipe to your catch basin before you pour the concrete. The drain pipe should be sloped so as to channel the water right.
Reinforce With Rebar
Attach rebars to where you will pour the concrete on to ensure your catch basin is secured. Install the rebars four inches deep and eight inches apart. To ensure you use the right length of rebar, referrer to the building code in your area.
Pour The Concrete
It is time to pour your concrete. If you want to save money and not rent mixing equipment, then you have to mix with your hand. Hand mixing can be well done if you follow the instructions on the package. Pour your concrete between the edge of the hole and the plywood. Then leave it to cure.
Take Out The Form
Take out the plywood box after your concrete has cured.
Pour The Base
It is time to pour the base of the concrete. Before pouring the base, put sand up to three inches on the floor of the. This will allow the concrete to come off easily whenever you choose to remove it. Then pour the concrete mixture on the sand and level it on every side. Smoothen the surface with a trowel.
Close The Catch Basin With A Grate
Ensure you close the catch basin with a metal grate that is appropriate in size. You can buy a pre-made one or make one yourself. Ensure that the grate is safe for animals and people to walk over without falling into the catch basin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can I Situate The Catch Basin?
Situate your catch basin in the lowest part of your property. Locate the part where there is water after rain. You need to monitor your property for that part that is prone to having stagnant water after rainfall.
Also, locate the part of your home’s foundation that will be suitable for the catch basin. Another aspect to consider is the place with low foot traffic and is somewhat hidden. Considering these factors, you have to be thoughtful with situating your catch basin.
What Is The Right Size Of The Catch Basin?
The regular size of a catch basin for residential properties is 2-by2-foot. A four to six inch drain is perfect. In places where there is not much rainfall and not much is required in terms of water management needs, the catch basin may even be 1-by-1-foot sized. However, you might build a large catch basin for commercial properties.
What Are The Types Of Catch Basin For Residential Homes?
Concrete catch basins for residential homes are of different types depending on what material they are made of. The different types include precast, cast-in, polymer, and plastic.
Precast concrete basin is one that you buy already-made. It is usually cost effective but heavy. A cast-in concrete catch basin is one you construct yourself. You will have to dig the hole, construct a wooden box and cast the basin. While the polymer catch basin involves a polymer binder, the plastic one is made of high density polythene.
How Much Does A Concrete Catch Basin Cost?
The cost of your catch basin depends on the material you use, the size of the basin, and the making. To professionally install a catch basin, you will spend between $2,500 to $5000. You will spend less if you have to construct it yourself.
Conclusion
Constructing a catch basin the DIY way is not difficult. The steps outlined here will help you make one within a short time without getting it wrong and wasting materials. Ensure you mix the concrete according to the method outlined in the package to get a great result.
