Sub-soil drainage is important for any type of landscaping or construction project. A 30mm drainage cell installation is a simple yet effective way to meet the specific application requirement. 

It helps in keeping water from pooling and optimise drainage for green roofs, podium gardens, sports fields, and retaining walls. If you’re planning to install one yourself, don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think!  

Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a well-functioning drainage system in no time. 

 

What You’ll Need 

Prior to getting started on the installation process, gather these tools and materials — 

  • 30mm drainage cells 

  • Geotextile fabric 

  • Sand or gravel (if needed for bedding) 

  • Cutter or saw (to trim drainage cells if needed) 

  • Tape measure 

  • Level 

  • Shovel or rake (for surface preparation) 

 

Step-by-Step Drainage Cell Installation Guide 

 

STEP #1 GET THE AREA READY 

First things first, you have to make sure the surface is clean, even and free from debris. If the ground is unlevelled then adding a layer of compacted sand or gravel can help create a stable base. This is the pre-installation preparation work that needs to be performed for a smooth procedure. 

 

STEP #2 LAY DOWN THE GEOTEXTILE FABRIC 

Next up is using the fabric over the area where drainage cells will be installed. This will serve as a protective barrier.  

Roll it out over the entire area. Be sure to extend the fabric past the edges to prevent soil from seeping in. If multiple pieces are used then overlap them by at least 100 mm at each seam to keep everything well-covered. 

 

STEP #3 POSITION THE DRAINAGE CELLS 

Now comes the main part—placing the drainage cells! You just have to simply lay them on top of the geotextile fabric.  

Once laid properly, connect them using their built-in interlocking system. Trim the edges using the cutter or saw to fit your designated space. Double-check for proper alignment at this point. 

 

STEP #4 SECURE THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM 

Fold any excess geotextile fabric over the top of the drainage cells. This step is essential to keep debris and soil from clogging the system.  

A simple folding action ensures long-term efficiency of the drainage cell. To keep the fabric in place during the installation procedure, you can use weights or temporary fasteners. 

 

STEP #5 ADD THE FINAL SURFACE LAYER 

Depending on your project, the final layer will vary — 

For paving or artificial turf, it is recommended to spread a layer of gravel, sand, or another suitable base material over the drainage cells. 

For installation of the drainage cell for rooftop gardens or lawns, add soil or a growing medium on top. 

Lightly compact the top layer to keep everything stable. Make sure to not overdo it—you still want water to drain properly. 

 

How Our Supplied Drainage Cell System Simplifies Installation? 

We at Dutco Tennant LLC supply 30mm Nero® Drainage Cells by Rainsmart Solutions. This uniquely Diamond CUP structured system offers the following benefits in the installation steps — 

  • This is a fit-in system that comes with pre-clipped panels making connection much faster and seamless. 

  • It has a lightweight design (only 3.2 kg/sqm) that reduces overall deck loads. It also cuts down the need for heavy machinery or skilled labor. 

  • This drainage cell system also maintains their void size even after backfilling and compaction. As a result, it ensures long-term drainage efficiency without clogging or collapse. 

A 30mm drainage cell installation isn’t as complicated as it might seem. Especially if you are choosing an advanced product like ours. Get in touch with us if you want to discuss your project and learn more benefits of how our drainage cell can benefit.