14 Types of Drainage Pipes to Use Under Your Driveway

Last Updated on June 2, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

When it comes to drainage pipes for your driveway, there are a few different types that you can use. In this blog post, we will discuss the 14 most popular types of drainage pipe and what each one is best suited for. So whether you’re looking to install a brand new driveway or just need to replace some old drainage pipe, read on for information about the best options for you!

What is Drainage Pipe?

Drainage pipe is a type of piping that is used to collect and transport water. It is usually made of concrete, plastic, or metal. The most common type of drainage pipe is the corrugated pipe, which is made of plastic or metal and has a series of ridges and valleys that allow water to flow through it.

Types of drainage pipes to use under driveway.

There are many different types of drainage pipes that can be used under driveways. Some of the most common include:

1. PVC Drainage Pipe.

PVC drainage pipe is a type of plastic pipe that is commonly used for drain lines in homes and businesses. PVC pipe is durable and easy to install, making it a popular choice for projects like replacing old drain lines or installing new ones. PVC drainage pipe comes in different sizes, so be sure to choose the right size for your project.

PVC-U.

PVC-U stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, which is a strong and durable material that is perfect for drainage systems. PVC-U pipes are available in a range of sizes and lengths to suit your needs, and they are easy to install thanks to their push-fit joints.

PVC-U pipes are also resistant to corrosion and will not rust or rot, making them a great choice for long-lasting drainage.

C-PVC.

C-PVC is a type of PVC that is commonly used for drainage pipe. It is strong and durable, and can be used for both above and below ground applications. C-PVC is easy to install and is less likely to leak than other types of PVC.

PVC-O.

PVC-O is a tough, rigid and durable pipe that is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including those found in sewage and industrial waste. It is also resistant to abrasion and will not corrode or degrade over time.

PVC-O has a high resistance to pressure and can withstand up to 16 bar of pressure. This makes it an ideal choice for high-pressure applications such as sewerage and stormwater. PVC-O is also light weight and easy to install, making it a popular choice for both commercial and domestic applications.

3. Metal.

When it comes to drainage, metal is one of the most reliable materials you can use. It’s durable and won’t corrode over time, so you can rest assured that your driveway will stay well-drained for years to come.

Metal pipes are also less likely to collapse or crack under heavy weight, making them ideal for driveways. If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting drainage solution, metal is the way to go.

4. Copper.

Copper is a great pipe material for drainage because it is durable and will not corrode. It is also easy to install and does not require special tools or training. Copper pipes are available in different diameters to fit your needs.

5. Clay.

It is the most common type of soil in the world and is composed of small particles of rock and minerals. It is also very absorbent, which makes it ideal for drainage. Clay pipes are available in a variety of sizes and can be connected to each other with couplings.

Clay pipes are also very durable and can last for many years. However, they are susceptible to root intrusion and may need to be replaced if tree roots grow into them.

6. Concrete.

Concrete is the most common type of pipe used under driveways. It is strong and can withstand heavy weights. If you have a driveway that will be carrying heavy vehicles, concrete is the best option. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

7. Cast Iron.

Cast Iron is the most common type of pipe used under driveways. It is strong and durable, making it ideal for heavy traffic areas. However, it is also susceptible to corrosion and may require regular maintenance.

8. Plastic.

Plastic is the most common type of drainage pipe used under driveways. It is inexpensive and easy to install. However, it is not as durable as other types of drainage pipes and can be easily damaged by roots or rocks.

9. Polyethylene.

The most common type of drainage pipe is polyethylene. It is durable and has a long lifespan. It is available in different diameters and thicknesses to meet your needs. Polyethylene is easy to install and does not require special tools or equipment.

What are the styles of drainage pipes to use under driveway?

There are four primary types of drainage pipes that can be used under driveways: corrugated, perforated, smooth wall, and French drain. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when making a decision.

1. Perforated Drain Pipe.

This is the most common type of pipe used under driveways. It has small holes along its length that allow water to seep through and drain away from the driveway. The pipe is usually made of plastic or concrete and is available in a variety of sizes.

The advantage of using a perforated pipe is that it is very effective at draining water away from the driveway and preventing it from becoming damaged. However, one downside is that the holes can become clogged with debris over time, which can reduce its effectiveness.

2. Single Wall Corrugated.

This is the most common type of pipe used under driveways. It is made of HDPE and has a smooth interior with a corrugated exterior. The corrugations give the pipe strength and stiffness. This type of pipe is available in various diameters ranging from four inches to sixty inches.

HDPE pipe is strong, durable, flexible and lightweight. It is easy to install and is resistant to corrosion, abrasion and chemical attack.

The smooth interior of HDPE pipe provides for excellent flow characteristics and it is able to handle heavy loads.

3. Dual Wall Corrugated.

It is made of two layers of HDPE material that are fused together. The corrugated outer layer provides structural strength and the smooth inner wall allows for maximum flow capacity.

There are many different types of Dual Wall Corrugated pipes available on the market today, so it is important to know what your specific needs are before making a purchase.

4. Smooth Wall.

This type of pipe is very common and is used under driveways, parking lots and sidewalks. It is also used in agricultural applications. The smooth wall has a very slick surface that allows water to flow easily through it. This type of pipe is available in different diameters and lengths.

5. French drain.

A French drain is a drainage system that consists of a perforated pipe that is wrapped in gravel. The gravel helps to keep the soil in place and prevents clogging. French drains are typically used to collect water from an area where it is not wanted, such as a driveway or patio.

One advantage of using a French drain is that it is relatively easy to install.

Another advantage of using a French drain is that it can be used in conjunction with other drainage systems, such as a sump pump.

French drains are not without their disadvantages, however. One disadvantage of using a French drain is that they can be susceptible to clogging if not maintained properly.

Related: 18+ Best Drainage Ditch Landscaping Ideas

How do you install a drain under a driveway?

You need to first excavate the area where the drain will be installed. Then, you need to install a pipe that will carry the water away from your driveway.

Finally, you need to backfill the excavation and ensure that the drain is properly draining water away from your driveway.

Installing a drain under your driveway can seem like a daunting task, but following these simple steps will help to ensure that the job is done properly.

How to run drainage pipe under driveway

You will need to dig a trench that is at least 18 inches deep in order to lay the pipe. The width of the trench should be about twice the diameter of the pipe. For example, if you are using a ten-inch pipe, then your trench should be about twenty inches wide.

Place the pipe in the trench and make sure that it is level. Once the pipe is in place, you will need to backfill the trench.

Be sure to compact the soil as you are filling in the trench. This will help to prevent the pipe from shifting over time. After the trench is filled, you can cover it with grass seed or sod.

If you are having trouble getting the pipe to stay in place, you can use sandbags or rocks to hold it down. Just be sure that the pipe is level before you start filling in the trench. If you are using a perforated pipe, be sure to cover the holes with soil so that they are not exposed.

It is also a good idea to put a layer of mulch over the top of the pipe. This will help to keep the soil moist and will also help to prevent erosion.

You should now have a functioning drainage system under your driveway! Be sure to check it periodically to make sure that it is working properly. If you have any questions, be sure to consult with a professional.

FAQs

How deep to bury drain pipe under driveway?

The general rule of thumb is to bury your drain pipe at least four feet deep. This will ensure that your pipe is buried deep enough to avoid any freezing or damage from vehicles driving over it.

If you live in an area with a high water table, you may need to bury your pipe even deeper. Check with your local building department for any special requirements in your area.

When you are ready to dig the trench for your drain pipe, be sure to call your local utility companies first. They will mark any underground lines that you need to avoid when digging. Once you have the all-clear, you can start digging your trench. Be sure to make the trench wide enough to accommodate your drain pipe and any gravel or other material you will be using to surround it.

If you are installing a new driveway, you will need to dig a trench for the drainage pipe before pouring the concrete. The depth of the trench will depend on the type of pipe you are using.

Once you have the trench dug, you can install your drain pipe and backfill it with gravel or other material. Be sure to compact the material around the pipe to ensure that it is secure. Once the pipe is installed, you can finish installing your driveway.

Which PVC pipe is best for underground drainage?

There are many different types of PVC pipes available on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is best for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a PVC pipe for underground drainage:

– The diameter of the pipe should be appropriate for the amount of water you expect to drain.

– The thickness of the pipe walls will affect how durable it is.

– The type of PVC material will also affect the pipe’s durability.

Is PVC better than corrugated pipe?

PVC pipe is often less expensive than corrugated pipe. PVC is also easier to install than corrugated pipe. However, corrugated pipe is more durable than PVC.

So, which is better? The answer depends on your needs. If you need a durable pipe that can withstand heavy wear and tear, then corrugated pipe is the better choice. However, if you are looking for an inexpensive and easy to install pipe, then PVC is the better option.

How long will schedule 40 PVC pipe last underground?

The truth is, no one really knows for sure. The best answer anyone can give is “it depends.” It depends on the conditions underground – if it’s buried in moist soil, for example, it will degrade faster than if it’s in dry soil. It also depends on the quality of the pipe – some brands are better made than others and will last longer.

That said, most PVC pipes have a lifespan of 50-100 years. So unless you’re planning on being around to replace it in a few decades, schedule 40 PVC should do the job just fine.

Should I use perforated corrugated pipe for drainage?

The quick answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, perforated corrugated pipe is not meant for every drainage situation. It is best used in areas where the water table is high and the soil drains poorly. Second, be sure to install a sock or filter fabric around the pipe to keep soil and sediment from clogging the pipe. Third, be sure to slope the pipe so that water flows towards the outlet.

Factors to consider when buying drainage pipe to use under driveway.

When it comes to choosing the right kind of pipe to use under your driveway, there are several factors you need to take into account.

First, you need to consider the climate and weather conditions in your area. If you live in an area with heavy rains or frequent flooding, you’ll need a pipe that can handle high volumes of water.

Second, you need to consider the soil type in your area. Different kinds of pipe are better suited for different types of soil. If you have sandy soil, for example, you’ll need a pipe that can handle high levels of water without collapsing.

Third, you need to think about the long-term effects of using a particular kind of pipe. Some pipes are more durable than others and can last for many years without needing to be replaced. Others may degrade over time and need to be replaced more frequently. Fourth, you need to consider your budget. Different kinds of pipe vary widely in price, so it’s important to choose one that fits your budget.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the different types of drainage pipe that can be used under your driveway. We hope this has been helpful and informative. As always, if you have any questions or need assistance with choosing the right type of pipe for your project, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help!