How to Read Grading Plans With Yard Drains

Grading plans are detailed drawings that show the elevation of a property and the location of any drainage features, such as yard drains. They are used to ensure that water is properly drained away from a property and to prevent flooding.

If you are planning to install a yard drain, or if you are simply curious about how your property is graded, it is helpful to be able to read grading plans. Here is a basic guide to help you get started:

1. Understand the symbols used on grading plans. The symbols used on grading plans can vary from one municipality to another, but there are some common symbols that are used across the board. These symbols include:

* Contour lines: Contour lines show the elevation of a property at specific intervals. They are typically drawn at one-foot intervals, but they can also be drawn at other intervals, such as two-foot or five-foot intervals.

* Spot elevations: Spot elevations are individual elevation measurements that are taken at specific locations on a property. They are typically shown as numbers that are enclosed in circles.

* Drainage arrows: Drainage arrows show the direction of water flow on a property. They are typically drawn as arrows that point downhill.

* Yard drains: Yard drains are shown as small circles or squares with a downward-pointing arrow. They are typically located at the bottom of a slope or in other areas where water is likely to collect.

2. Locate the yard drains on the grading plan. Once you understand the symbols used on grading plans, you can locate the yard drains. Yard drains are typically located at the bottom of a slope or in other areas where water is likely to collect.

3. Determine the elevation of the yard drains. The elevation of the yard drains is shown on the grading plan as spot elevations. The elevation of the yard drains is important because it determines how far away the drains need to be placed from the foundation of your home.

4. Install the yard drains. Once you have located the yard drains and determined their elevation, you can install them. Yard drains are typically installed by a licensed plumber.

By following these steps, you can read grading plans and understand the location and elevation of yard drains. This information can be helpful when planning to install a yard drain or when simply trying to understand how your property is graded.