Minor Driveway Grade Causing Drainage Confusion in Plans

[LeviSunter]

Hey everyone,

 

I’m working on a simple remodel plan and noticed that the existing driveway has a slight grade that pushes rainwater toward the garage corner. It’s not a huge slope, but just enough to cause concern for future runoff issues.

 

I was thinking of adding a small channel drain in the design to help with that, but wasn’t sure if it’s worth noting in the actual plans or just something to mention during the build phase. A concrete contractor I chatted with once said even small grading issues can turn into bigger problems if they’re overlooked early on.

 

Thanks in advance!

[LeviSunter]

23 hours ago, LeviSunter said:

Hey everyone,

 

I’m working on a simple remodel plan and noticed that the existing driveway has a slight grade that pushes rainwater toward the garage corner. It’s not a huge slope, but just enough to cause concern for future runoff issues.

 

I was thinking of adding a small channel drain in the design to help with that, but wasn’t sure if it’s worth noting in the actual plans or just something to mention during the build phase. A concrete contractor I chatted with once said even small grading issues can turn into bigger problems if they’re overlooked early on.

 

Thanks in advance!

Got some good advice from here: Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor MI

I’m also wondering if small fixes like this are usually handled by the concrete crew on-site, or if it’s better to plan them out more clearly ahead of time?

[CharlesVolz]

Always put everything in plans...if:

1. You really want it to happen.
2. You want it to happen a certain way.
3. You don't want to pay for it (as a designer).

I never want a subcontractor or their employees as a co-designer. Not just because they are probably not qualified, but because they usually have a conflict of interest. They may profit more by building less and building wrong.

 

A detailed note may be sufficient, depending on what it is. It is probably not a small inexpensive detail, if you are talking about a rectangular channel drain with a grating cover, thickened slab, additional reinforcing, etc.

 

Best,

Charles