LF logo
by learnformula
search
Log in
search
Courses/Engineering/Stormwater Engineering

Principles of Building Drainage Design

Master the art of sustainable drainage, transforming runoff into a resource. Design resilient systems that protect structures and enhance ecosystems using innovative techniques and materials

Created byBuildPro Education Network
4.8
(4 reviews)
BeginnerUpdated Dec 5, 2025
Principles of Building Drainage Design

What You'll Learn

check_circleUnderstand soil-water interaction for effective drainage.
check_circleLearn SUDS principles for multi-functional drainage.
check_circleMaster pipe material selection and system sizing.
check_circleApply the Rational Method for runoff calculations.
check_circleImplement proper installation and maintenance techniques.
check_circleAnalyze advanced modeling for drainage solutions.

About This Course

Welcome to "Principles of Building Drainage Design." This course bridges traditional civil engineering with modern sustainable urban planning, exploring the critical necessity of managing exterior water to protect structures and enhance landscapes.

You'll learn to move beyond simple water removal, examining how drainage systems can provide multifunctional benefits and integrate ecosystem services into the built environment. We analyze the mechanics of soil and water interaction, the hardware required for effective systems, and the theoretical frameworks that drive Sustainable Urban Drainage Design (SUDS).

Key learning outcomes include:

  • Understanding the relationship between soil composition and water behavior, differentiating between capillary and gravitational moisture, and identifying surface and subsurface water sources.
  • Mastering topography analysis, including slope calculation and leveling tools, to predict runoff patterns and erosion risks.
  • Exploring the theoretical framework of SUDS, emphasizing multifunctionality and breaking down its four critical design criteria: Water Quantity, Water Quality, Amenity, and Biodiversity.
  • Delving into technical specifics of material selection, including pipe types (HDPE, PVC), French drains, catch basins, and channel drains.
  • Applying calculation methodologies like the Rational Method for peak runoff rates and introducing advanced modeling techniques for flood prediction and water quality assessment.
  • Gaining practical knowledge in installation techniques, from trench excavation to proper bedding and backfilling.
  • Understanding discharge design options, such as pop-up emitters and daylighting to swales.
  • Developing troubleshooting methodologies to identify system failures, diagnose obstructions, and perform necessary maintenance for long-term viability.

This course ensures you're equipped to design resilient, efficient, and sustainable drainage infrastructures.

Your Instructors

BuildPro  Education Network
BuildPro Education Network
menu_book6 courses
star21 reviews

BuildPro Education Network provides trusted continuing professional development for today’s architecture, construction, and building-services industries. We develop targeted, up-to-date courses covering advanced materials, integrated systems, design innovation, and sustainable building practices. Our mission is to empower professionals with practical knowledge and modern tools.

JL
Jerry Luo, PhD, PE

Jerry Luo, PhD, PE, is a licensed professional engineer in Ohio, Louisiana, and Texas, with over 15 years of diverse experience spanning higher education, research, and consulting in civil engineering and construction management. Renowned for his expertise in geotechnical engineering, he has published over 60 peer-reviewed research articles, significantly contributing to advancements in geotechnical risk assessment and infrastructure resilience. He also co-authored a widely recognized textbook on soil dynamics. Jerry has actively contributed to the global engineering community by serving on the editorial boards of multiple international journals and as a member of organizing committees for prestigious conferences. His work bridges academic excellence and industry practice, making a tangible impact on critical engineering projects. His dedication to mentorship and innovation reflects his commitment to shaping the next generation of civil engineers and advancing the profession through research, education, and practice.

Credit Information

Do these courses count toward my professional development requirements?

This portal is provided as a training and development resource for City of Markham employees. Every course is delivered by a qualified subject matter expert or learning organization, is quantifiable in hours, and is verifiable — you receive a documented certificate of completion for every course you finish, stored on LearnFormula indefinitely.

If you hold a professional designation (for example in engineering, accounting, human resources, or law), courses may be counted as professionally relevant, verifiable learning activities toward your continuing professional development. Individual practitioners are responsible for confirming that an activity meets the requirements of their professional body. For questions about the City of Markham's training and development policies, please speak with your people leader or Human Resources.

What Students Are Saying

4.8
Student's Choice
4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

We are a registered provider with 327+ associations and regulatory bodies worldwide. We operate across 29 global markets including Canada, the US, Australia, and the UK. Every course page clearly displays its specific accreditations. Upon completion, you receive a professional certificate that can be validated online. Our certificates include all necessary accreditation details, credit hours, and completion dates, and are formatted specifically to meet the submission requirements of most global regulatory bodies.