Drainage Cells Matter in Modern Construction

A number of different factors can affect how well a building is constructed and how long it lasts. An important factor that needs to be considered is how the building uses water. Regardless of what type of building is being built, there should be sufficient drainage to allow the building to function properly for years. When water builds up around or above a structure from rain or groundwater, it puts pressure on the walls, damages the soil surrounding them, and may lead to problems related to moisture and leakage. Inadequate drainage can lead to higher maintenance costs, as well as damages to adjacent structures and products. Therefore, creating a plan to install appropriate drainage systems is a critical part of constructing any building. A Drainage Cell is a beneficial geosynthetic product which allows for the creation of a drainage space which allows for water to drain away when installed correctly. Generally speaking, Drainage Cells have a three-dimensional design which provides channels for water to drain away, while supporting the materials that are used to cover the cells. 

Important Applications of Drainage Cells in Buildings and Landscapes

Drainage cells are versatile and can be used in numerous ways in both the construction industry and the landscaping industry to manage water. Rooftops and podiums are typically constructed of soil, vegetation, paving units, etc., and they exist above the structural roof or podium. If there is no drainage system installed beneath the landscape layers then any excessive water from irrigation or rainfall will build up underneath the landscape layers. Drainage cells provide a path for the excess water to move toward the pre-determined discharge point and provide support for the overlying materials when properly sized. Another application for drainage cells is for basement and foundation protection. In conjunction with water proofing systems, drainage cells aid in controlling the flow of water around below grade walls. However, the installation of these cells needs to follow the specific design requirements due to the variations in groundwater pressures and site conditions. Retention walls are another possible application for drainage cells.

Choosing a Reliable Drainage Cell

When ordering from an established Drainage Cell Manufacturer or supplier, it is important for the customer to choose the best drainage cell for his/her project. The customer and contractor need to purchase products that meet the technical requirements of the project, can be delivered on time and can be installed according to the approved plan. Before placing an order, the customer should review all aspects of each product such as the compressive strength, drainage capacity, dimensions, thickness, polymer type and performance under the expected loading conditions. Also, before making a final decision on which product to order, the customer should find out whether the product(s) have been manufactured specifically for the intended use (green roofs, planter boxes, retaining walls, etc.). There are many types of drainage cells produced today, but not all of them are the same. A reputable drainage cell manufacturer will provide the necessary product specifications and other technical documentation to support those products. Additionally, customers can ask for information about the manufacturer's quality control practices, testing procedures, packaging practices, storage practices and installation instructions. 

Installation Methods and Maintenance for Long-Term Drainage Performance

In order for a Drainage Cell to function properly, the manner in which it is installed must be done in accordance with the specifications of the project. Before the construction crew begins installing the Drainage Cell, they should properly prepare the surface according to the specifications. In addition to preparing the surface, a waterproof membrane (if required) must have been installed and inspected and passed by an authorized person prior to laying down the drainage layer. If the purpose of the Drainage Cell is to provide protection to a waterproof membrane, then the installer must take care not to cause any damage to the membrane while laying down and/or moving the Drainage Cell around. The Drainage Cell must also be installed in a manner consistent with the manufacturer's directions regarding both orientation and layout. Additionally, if there is a requirement for a geotextile filter, the installer must ensure that it is positioned correctly such that there is less likelihood of soil entering the drainage space and causing a blockage. Finally, the installer must ensure that the drainage layer is positioned in such a way that it enters either the collection points or outlets specified in the plans such that water may flow freely away from the site. 

Conclusion

The drainage cell is a functional building component that creates an outlet for excess water to run off of retaining walls, foundation walls, green roofs (vegetated roofs), podiums, etc. Because of its three-dimensional structure, the drainage cell provides space for water drainage while providing support for the above layers if the right cell has been selected according to the expected load. There are many factors that contribute to how well the drainage cell functions. These include choosing the proper waterproof membrane, employing the proper filters, installing the cell properly, ensuring that there are adequate drainage outlets, and regularly maintaining the cell. Also, selecting a Drainage Cell Supplier that has technical specifications that match those needed for your specific application is very important. One example of a drainage product manufacturer/supplier is Singhal Industries Private Limited. If you would like to know more about the drainage products offered by Singhal Industries, their availability, and specifications, you can contact them directly. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What Is a Drainage Cell Used For?
A Drainage Cell is used to create a space for water drainage to occur, which allows any extra water to exit through its intended exit point. You will typically find a drainage cell on basement walls, foundation with a drainage system, retaining walls, rooftop gardens, green roofs, podium landscapes, and planters.

Q2. How Does a Drainage Cell Help Protect Foundations?
The use of a Drainage Cell is to create an alternative way for water to move towards a collection point or discharge location. With the help of appropriate waterproofing and filtration techniques, a Drainage Cell can help prevent unwanted accumulation of water near the foundation of a building.

Q3. What Should I Check Before Buying a Drainage Cell?
Before you purchase, check out the products ability to compress, ability to drain, the thickness of the product, the size of the product, the type of polymer that was utilized during production and if the product can meet your needs for its intended application.

Q4. How Can I Find a Reliable Drainage Cell Supplier?
To assist you in selecting the best Drainage Cell Supplier for your needs, consider evaluating each supplier's product specifications, quality documentation, availability, delivery schedules and level of technical support provided.

Q5. Who is the largest supplier of Drainage Cell?
One company as the largest Drainage Cell Supplier across all markets. Singhal Industries Private Limited is a company prospective buyers may contact to enquire about relevant drainage products and availability.