DrainageCalculators

Practical Guides

Step-by-step guides for real-world drainage design and installation projects. From French drain installation to parking lot drainage, find the guidance you need.

Beginner 15 min

Downspout Disconnection: Redirect Roof Runoff from Your Foundation

Learn how to disconnect downspouts from storm drains and redirect roof runoff to protect your foundation, reduce flooding, and support green infrastructure.

Read guide
Intermediate 22 min

Detention vs. Retention: Understanding the Difference and Choosing the Right Approach

Compare detention and retention ponds for stormwater management. Learn the design differences, applications, maintenance requirements, and selection criteria.

Read guide
Intermediate 28 min

Erosion Control Principles: Protecting Soil and Water Quality

Understand erosion control fundamentals for construction sites and permanent installations. Learn about sediment control, BMPs, regulations, and inspection requirements.

Read guide
Intermediate 25 min

French Drain Installation Guide: Complete Step-by-Step Instructions

Learn how to design and install a French drain system. Includes sizing calculations, material selection, installation steps, and troubleshooting tips.

Read guide
Intermediate 20 min

Loading Dock Drainage Design: Complete Engineering Guide

Design effective loading dock drainage systems. Learn about floor drains, trench drains, spill containment, and regulatory requirements for truck loading areas.

Read guide
Intermediate 28 min

Parking Lot Drainage Design: Complete Engineering Guide

Design effective parking lot drainage systems. Learn about slopes, inlet placement, pipe sizing, oil/water separators, and stormwater quality requirements.

Read guide
Intermediate 25 min

Rational Method vs. SCS/NRCS Method: Which Should You Use?

Compare the Rational Method and SCS/NRCS Curve Number Method for stormwater calculations. Learn when to use each method based on project size, requirements, and data availability.

Read guide
Advanced 35 min

Subdivision Stormwater Design: From Concept to Construction

Master subdivision stormwater design principles. Learn about regional detention, lot-level drainage, street drainage, and regulatory coordination for residential developments.

Read guide

Want to Learn the Theory?

Check out our educational articles for in-depth explanations of drainage engineering methods and concepts.