What is Construction Dewatering? Methods & Benefits

Dewatering is the process of removing groundwater or surface water from a construction site using dewatering systems. The pumping process pumps water up through wells, wellpoints, eductors, or sumps installed in the ground. Temporary and permanent solutions are available.

Importance of Dewatering in Construction

Controlling groundwater in a construction project is critical to success. Water intrusion can threaten ground stability. The following are benefits of construction site dewatering:

Reduce costs & keep project on schedule

Prevents water from affecting jobsite and unexpected changes due to groundwater

Stable Worksite

Prepares soil for construction mitigating risks associated with running sand

Excavation Safety

Provides dry working conditions to ensure personnel safety

Dewatering Methods

Working with a groundwater control specialist is essential when designing a pump system for site dewatering. Improperly designed solutions can result in unwanted subsidence, erosion, or flooding. Professional engineers evaluate local hydrogeology and site conditions to engineer the most effective systems.

Wellpoint Systems

Consist of a series of wellpoints that connect to a common header pipe. The header system connects to a vacuum pump that draws groundwater up and discharges it.

Deep Well Systems

Consist of one or more individual wells. Each has a submersible pump that pumps out groundwater.

Eductor Systems

Wells are installed and connected to two parallel headers. One header is a high-pressure supply line, and the other is a low-pressure return line. Both run to a central pump station.

Open Sumping

Groundwater seeps into the excavation, where it’s collected in sumps and pumped away.