Effective stormwater management can reduce flood risk, protect local waterways, and even save you money on water bills.
Stormwater management is crucial not only for your property but also for the environment and our communities. Each raindrop that lands on your property has the potential to either help or harm, depending on how you manage it. Effective stormwater management reduces the risk of flooding, minimizes erosion, and recharges our groundwater supplies. It also prevents contaminants from entering our natural waterways, protecting aquatic life and maintaining water quality. Moreover, smart stormwater solutions like rain gardens, permeable pavers, and rain barrels can enhance your home’s aesthetic, potentially increasing property value. In an era of climate change, taking steps to manage stormwater at home is a proactive, responsible action towards resilience and sustainability. Join us in making a difference for our homes, our neighborhoods, and our planet.
Examples
1Gutters and Downspouts
These direct roof runoff away from your home, preventing water damage.
2Rain Barrels
Containers that capture and store rainwater from roofs for later use, saving on water bills.
3Rain Gardens
Depressed garden areas that absorb runoff, filtering pollutants and enhancing local biodiversity.
4Permeable Pavement
Paving materials that allow water to infiltrate, reducing runoff and replenishing groundwater.
5Green Roofs
Rooftop gardens that absorb rainwater, provide insulation, and reduce urban heat island effects.
6Retention/Detention Basins
Man-made ponds that store excess runoff and slowly release it, reducing flood risks.
7Swales
Grassed channels that convey and infiltrate runoff, slowing erosion.
Pros
- Environmental Protection: Effective stormwater management significantly reduces water pollution by preventing runoff from carrying contaminants into local waterways. Compared to traditional drainage systems, these methods filter and reuse stormwater, protecting aquatic ecosystems and drinking water sources.
- Reduced Flooding and Erosion: Stormwater solutions absorb and slow water flow, minimizing risks of flooding and erosion. Unlike concrete channels which speed water flow and exacerbate erosion, features like rain gardens and swales work with nature, not against it.
- Cost and Resource Efficiency: Systems like rain barrels and green roofs decrease reliance on municipal water, lowering water bills. Also, by reducing the impact of flooding, they can mitigate potential property damage costs.
Cons
- Initial Investment: Installing stormwater management systems can be costly upfront compared to traditional systems, although long-term savings often outweigh initial expenses.
- Maintenance: Systems like green roofs and rain gardens require regular maintenance, which can be time-consuming compared to conventional alternatives.
- Space Requirements: Some stormwater solutions require substantial space, making implementation more challenging for smaller properties.
Cost
1New Construction
Incorporating stormwater management into a new construction varies widely depending on the specifics of the project, location, size, and selected systems. On average, it may add 5%-20% to the total construction cost. For example, a project costing $200,000 could see an increase of $10,000 to $40,000. However, these upfront costs are often offset by reduced water and energy bills over time.
2Existing Home (Hiring a Contractor)
- Rain Barrel Installation: $100-$300 per barrel (including installation).
- Rain Garden Installation: $10-$13 per square foot, making a 150 sqft rain garden cost between $1,500-$1,950.
- Permeable Paving: $10-$20 per square foot. A 500 sqft area could cost between $5,000-$10,000.
- Green Roof: $10-$25 per square foot, depending on plant types and roofing complexity.
3Existing Home (DIY)
- Rain Barrel Installation: $50-$200 per barrel (excluding labor).
- Rain Garden Installation: $3-$5 per square foot, making a 150 sqft rain garden cost between $450-$750.
- Permeable Paving: $5-$10 per square foot. A 500 sqft area could cost between $2,500-$5,000.
- Green Roof: DIY installation is not typically recommended due to structural and waterproofing complexities.
Hiring Pros
- Research Professionals: Start your search with trusted websites such as those found in our resources.
- Check Credentials: Make sure your chosen expert has appropriate qualifications, like ARCSA Accredited Professionals certification, and any necessary local licenses.
- Seek Experience: Look for experts with experience in your specific desired system, whether it’s a green roof, rain garden, or something else.
- Ask for References: Request and check references from previous clients to ensure the expert’s work meets high standards.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Donât settle for the first quote. Compare pricing and services from several experts to make an informed decision, and make sure the quote includes a clear breakdown of costs.
Do It Yourself
- Educate Yourself: Start your search with trusted books & websites such as those found in our resources.
- Plan Ahead: Evaluate your site for soil type, size, slope, and location before starting. These factors significantly influence what kind of stormwater management solution you can implement.
- Safety First: Always be aware of underground utilities before digging. In the U.S., you can dial 811 for a free utility location service.
- Local Compliance: Check local regulations and permit requirements for stormwater management installations.
- Maintenance: Consider the long-term maintenance of your project. Choose options that are not only feasible to build but also manageable to maintain.
Tips for Renters
Finding a Rental:
1Ask Questions
Inquire about stormwater systems already in place. Look for rain barrels, green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavement during property visits.
2Research the Area
Look into the area’s flood history. Properties with effective stormwater management systems should have less flood-related issues.
3Check with Local Government
Some municipalities have stormwater regulations or incentives. Properties in compliance often have good stormwater management.
Convincing Your Landlord:
1Highlight Cost Savings
Explain how stormwater management can reduce water bills and prevent costly water damage.
2Showcase Aesthetics and Property Value
Well-maintained rain gardens or green roofs can enhance the property’s appearance and potentially its value.
3Emphasize Environmental Responsibility
Many people value sustainability. Highlight how stormwater management contributes to a healthier local environment.
Tips for Designers & Builders
For the Design Team:
1Integrated Approach
Incorporate stormwater management early in the design process, not as an afterthought. By seamlessly blending these features with the architecture and landscape, you can create a comprehensive design that is functional, beautiful, and sustainable.
2Site-Specific Design
The design should be tailored to the site’s unique characteristics, such as climate, topography, soil type, and local plant species. These factors will affect the system’s efficacy and longevity.
3Resilience Planning
Given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change, your design should anticipate higher volumes of stormwater and plan accordingly to maximize resilience.
For the Builder:
1Quality Materials and Installation
Using high-quality materials and following best practices for installation are key to ensuring the longevity and performance of stormwater management systems.
2Coordinate with Other Trades
Good coordination with other trades is vital, particularly when it comes to elements like plumbing for rainwater harvesting or irrigation systems. Mistakes or miscommunication can lead to costly repairs.
3Training and Education
Regular training for your team ensures that everyone is up-to-date on the latest methods and technologies in stormwater management, allowing you to provide the best service to your clients.
1Integrated Approach
Incorporate stormwater management early in the design process, not as an afterthought. By seamlessly blending these features with the architecture and landscape, you can create a comprehensive design that is functional, beautiful, and sustainable.
1Quality Materials and Installation
Using high-quality materials and following best practices for installation are key to ensuring the longevity and performance of stormwater management systems.
2Site-Specific Design
The design should be tailored to the site’s unique characteristics, such as climate, topography, soil type, and local plant species. These factors will affect the system’s efficacy and longevity.
2Coordinate with Other Trades
Good coordination with other trades is vital, particularly when it comes to elements like plumbing for rainwater harvesting or irrigation systems. Mistakes or miscommunication can lead to costly repairs.
3Resilience Planning
Given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change, your design should anticipate higher volumes of stormwater and plan accordingly to maximize resilience.
3Training and Education
Regular training for your team ensures that everyone is up-to-date on the latest methods and technologies in stormwater management, allowing you to provide the best service to your clients.
Resources
Books:
“Rain Gardens: Managing Water Sustainably in the Garden and Designed Landscape” by Andy Clayden, Nigel Dunnett.
Websites:
- American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association: https://www.arcsa.org
- Stormwater Solutions: https://www.stormwater.com
- The Watershed Project: https://www.thewatershedproject.org
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-stormwater-program
