Can You Build a Garage Over a Drain Cover?

Have you been thinking about building a garage over the drain cover in your yard? It’s not an impossible feat, but it does require some extra care to ensure that the structure is safe and sound.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what needs to be considered when planning to build a garage over a drain cover.

Can You Actually Build a Garage Over a Drain Cover

Building any kind of structure over the top of an existing drain cover is possible, but there are several steps you must take to ensure that the project meets all building codes and regulations.

According to the International Residential Code (IRC), garages must maintain enough open area within three feet of surface drains.

This means that the architect or engineer designing your garage will need to consider the amount of space between the proposed structure and the catch basin below it.

The IRC also states that there must be no more than ten feet between two points in the foundation system for drainage purposes.

This means that if you plan on building your garage over a sanitary sewer or storm sewer catch basin, you’ll need to install additional drainage systems around it so that water can effectively flow away from your foundation and not cause damage.

Additionally, you will also need to make sure that these additional drainage systems are large enough to handle runoff from heavy rainstorms or snow melt.

Despite all these considerations, many successful projects have been completed over sanitary or storm sewer catch basins by home builders with great results.

When done correctly, building garages over existing drain covers can help prevent flooding and other potential problems associated with water buildup near structures.

Conclusion:

Overall, it is possible to build a garage over a drain cover but it requires extra care and attention during the planning stages in order to meet all applicable codes and regulations while ensuring proper drainage around and below the structure.

With careful consideration and professional expertise, though, homeowners can complete this project successfully with great results!

If you’re considering taking on such an ambitious endeavor for your own backyard, make sure you consult with a qualified structural engineer first so they can provide guidance as well as advice on how best to proceed with your project. Good luck!