Storm pipes play an important role in removing storm runoff from streets and low-lying public areas and redirecting the water to collection areas such as lakes and rivers. Storm drains can be found embedded in street curbing, in sidewalks, in parking lots, in green spaces, and more. They are such a normal part of the landscape that we really don’t register their placement until something goes wrong. In Tucker Paving’s three decades of working in the paving industry—including underground utilities and existing water/sewer/storm pipe maintenance—when storm drains and pipes malfunction, there is usually a blockage somewhere. See what the most common culprits are and how you can mitigate the problem.

Identifying and Mitigating Storm System Blockages

  1. Debris and Trash. Storm runoff will move debris like sticks and fallen leaves, and trash like plastic bags, to the storm drain. There it accumulates if not cleared, and it will eventually clog the drain; then stormwater will pool and flood the area.

Mitigation—Efforts must be made to keep storm systems free of debris and refuse. Regular cleaning of natural materials, street sweeping, placing trash cans around the area, and trash capture devices in storm drain inlets can all help reduce the danger of blocked storm drains.

  1. Sediment and Soil. Soil and sediment can also be transported by rainwater runoff to clog storm drains, but it can also be caused by construction. Unfortunately, these clogs are more likely to be within the storm drain system rather than outside the grate, and these clogs are harder to fix. The sediment can also pollute waterways at the end of the storm drain system.

Mitigation—Once clogged, pipes must be cleared with manpower and/or specific machinery. Even better is to use erosion control measures like silt fences and sediment basins to stop erosion and catch displaced sediment.

  1. Tree Roots—Trees are great for minimizing the heat island effect of pavement in urban areas, but they are not great for pipes. Over several years, tree roots can enter pipes and grow, causing pipe breakage and blockage.

Mitigation—Storm drain pipes should be made out of appropriate materials and inspected regularly to spot tree root intrusion. Pipes can be cleared of pipes using special tools and machinery.

  1. Fats, Oil, and Grease (FOG). Oils from food sources and vehicles can combine and build up in storm drains, eventually creating a ball of grease that can clog storm drains.

Mitigation—Both residents and businesses alike should find disposal options for FOGs rather than pouring them down the drain. Additionally, motor oils and grease should never be dumped down a drain.

At Tucker Paving, we have three decades in the asphalt and concrete paving industry. Contact us by calling (863) 299-2262, or use our contact form online, to inquire about your next project!