Cutting Edge Inspections For Interior Perimeter Drains

EVstudio is the industry leader in providing a more accurate method of inspecting Interior Perimeter Drains. Interior perimeter drains are an important aspect of foundations because they prevent water from seeping into the foundation, which could cause structural issues. The method that inspectors have historically used to measure the slope on interior perimeter drains is simply to use a measuring tape and measure from top of the wall to a point on the drainpipe itself. The inaccuracy of this method of measurement is that the top of the wall is not guaranteed to be square and/or level.

Measuring top of wall
Measuring from the top of the wall.
Drainpipe
Measuring tape at the drainpipe

EVstudio’s new and improved method of measuring slope on interior perimeter drains is proven to be more accurate and ensures that the slope meets industry standards of 1/8” slope per foot. EVstudio inspectors are provided with a laser level kit and a sturdy measuring stick to measure slope on interior perimeter drains.

Laser Kit
Laser kit

Our practice is to measure no less than five (5) points around the entire perimeter of the crawlspace or basement. We carefully pull back the material and remove the gravel from on top of the drainpipe to create viewports where we take our measurements.

Point access for measuring purposes

Next, a self-leveling laser is attached to a metal point on the foundation, i.e. a basement window or lag bolt in the foundation. The laser itself swivels so that it never shifts from the point of measurement.

Self-leveling laser at the basement window
Laser swiveled to measure viewpoint

All the points are measured using the laser and measurements are recorded. We always make sure to mark the high point and to measure the drainpipe output in the sump pit to ensure proper slope.

Drain outputs into the Sump pit

Inspectors then carefully move the gravel back over the drainpipe, ensuring once again that industry standards of 3” of gravel is on top of the pipe and the felt material is moved back in place. Pictures are taken and an observation report is sent into the builder.

EVstudio implemented this new method of inspecting interior perimeter drains as a no-fail solution to ensure that your build meets industry standards and that the homeowner is met with quality workmanship. If you would like to learn more about EVstudio’s Field Services, click here.

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