When it comes to paving, the strength of the surface is only as reliable as the foundation beneath it. One of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of any paving project is proper drainage design. Without it, even expertly laid asphalt or concrete can fail far sooner than expected, leading to costly repairs and safety hazards.

The Role of Drainage in Pavement Longevity

Water is pavement’s worst enemy. Rainwater or runoff that pools or seeps beneath a paved surface begins to weaken the base and subgrade layers that support it. Over time, this can cause:

• Cracking
• Potholes
• Uneven surfaces

These issues are far more expensive to repair than to prevent with a well-planned drainage system.

A thoughtful drainage design ensures water flows away from the pavement efficiently. This includes:

• Grading surfaces to create proper slopes
• Installing storm drains
• Adding sub-surface drainage systems where needed

For construction professionals, these steps are essential—not optional—for long-term pavement performance and safety.

Key Elements of an Effective Drainage Design

Proper drainage involves more than simply installing pipes or gutters. It requires understanding how water behaves across different surfaces and soil types. A successful paving project typically includes:

• Surface Drainage: Designing the pavement’s slope to channel water toward gutters or catch basins.
• Subsurface Drainage: Installing drains below the pavement to prevent water from accumulating under the surface.
• Edge Drains and Ditches: Managing runoff along highways and large paved areas to reduce erosion and flooding.
• Permeable Pavements: Using materials that allow water to pass through, ideal for sustainable developments.

When these elements work together, the result is a paving system that stands up to heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions, common in Arkansas’s climate.

Common Problems Caused by Poor Drainage

Neglecting drainage design can lead to serious structural and safety issues:

• Puddling and erosion weaken the subgrade
• Freeze-thaw cycles expand small cracks into major structural failures
• Roads, driveways, and parking lots become safety hazards, increasing hydroplaning risk

Repairing drainage problems after construction is expensive, disruptive, and time-consuming for both cities and contractors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drainage Design

1. What are the effects of poor drainage?

Poor drainage can lead to pavement deterioration, including cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces. It also increases the risk of flooding, soil erosion, and structural damage to buildings or roads. Effective drainage design helps prevent these costly issues and extends the lifespan of paved surfaces.

2. What are the problems with drainage?

Common problems with drainage include standing water, blocked drains, soil erosion, and water seeping into subgrade layers. These issues weaken foundations, reduce pavement longevity, and create safety hazards such as slippery surfaces and hydroplaning risks.

3. What are the diseases caused by poor drainage systems?

Poor drainage systems can create stagnant water, which becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes, bacteria, and mold. This can contribute to waterborne illnesses, respiratory problems, and vector-borne diseases in communities if not properly managed.

4. What is most affected by drainage issues?

The most affected areas include pavements, roads, parking lots, gardens, and building foundations. Drainage problems compromise structural integrity, increase maintenance costs, and pose safety hazards for pedestrians and vehicles alike.

Building Better Roads with Drainage in Mind

At RedStone Construction, drainage is integrated into every stage of the paving process. From site preparation to grading and final surface compaction, every detail is planned to ensure lasting quality. A strong road begins with solid engineering, and smart drainage is at the core of that foundation.

Call RedStone Construction today to discuss your next paving project and see how our commitment to proper drainage design delivers roads built to last.