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What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Drains?

Drainage is an essential aspect of any landscape design. Outdoor drains are designed to redirect water away from your home's foundation and landscape.

May 05, 2026
What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Drains?

Drainage is an essential aspect of any landscape design. Outdoor drains are designed to redirect water away from your home’s foundation and landscape. In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing walks you through the different types of outdoor drains and their uses. If you’re looking for a professional and top-rated plumbing service to install outdoor drains in your property, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing.

Channel Drains

Channel drains are discreet outdoor drains that capture and redirect surface water. They are often installed on patios or driveways. These drainage systems are best suited for areas where the goal is to avoid water accumulation on surfaces, such as your lawn. They feature a long, narrow grate that blends seamlessly with outdoor surfaces. These drains prevent water pooling and are suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Drains?

Catch Basins

Catch basins, also known as storm drains, are installed in yards, streets, and paved surfaces to direct runoff water into city sewer mains. These drains are installed beneath the surface and are covered with a grate. They are connected to a network of pipes that transport the collected water away from the area. One of the best things about catch basins is that they are easy to integrate with other drainage systems.

Traditional Trench Drains

Traditional trench drains are the most common type of outdoor drains installed in industrial settings, driveways, and commercial spaces. They feature a robust design and a grated surface that collects and channels large volumes of water away from surfaces.

French Drains

French drains are versatile subsurface drainage systems that consist of a perforated pipe enclosed in gravel or stone. These drains are designed to redirect groundwater away from low-lying areas, preventing water damage and flooding. The basic concept of a French drain is to redirect water away from an area by providing it with the easiest and controlled route to flow downhill. In a French drain system, excess water runs into a gravel-filled trench and then enters a perforated pipe located near the bottom of the trench. This pipe serves as a conduit for the collected water, ensuring it is efficiently channeled away from the area. French drains blend seamlessly into landscaping, making them a discreet and practical solution for managing excess moisture. If you have a flat yard that usually fills up with standing water, a French drain could be your answer. French drains can last for decades and do not have a visual impact on the yard. However, they tend to clog quite often.

Dry Wells

Dry wells, also known as soakaways, are simple structures consisting of a hole lined with porous material. They are responsible for collecting and dispersing stormwater runoff into the surrounding soil. You’ll commonly find dry wells in areas with poor drainage. If you’re tired of dealing with standing water on your property, it may be time to call a professional plumbing service to help you install a dry well.

Drainage Swales

Drainage swales, also known as swale drains, are gently sloped, landscaped features that help to manage stormwater runoff and control erosion. They consist of erosion-resistant grasses, vegetation, or rocks. Drainage swales not only serve a functional purpose but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces.

Professional Drain Installation, Repair, and Maintenance Services

Need help with outdoor drain installation? You can trust the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to do a great job. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a locally owned and operated plumbing company that specializes in drain installation & repair, drain cleaning, drain line repair, plumbing maintenance, and more. Call us today or contact us online to book an appointment.

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