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French Drains
A French drain is a drainage system designed to redirect excess groundwater away from areas where water collects, such as around a home's foundation, a soggy lawn, or a retaining wall.
How it works
A French drain typically consists of:
- A sloped trench.
- Landscape fabric lining the trench (to reduce soil intrusion).
- A layer of gravel.
- A perforated pipe (holes facing down is a common installation method).
- More gravel covering the pipe, with soil or decorative stone on top.
Water seeps into the gravel, enters the perforated pipe, and flows downhill to a safe discharge point, such as:
- A storm drain (where permitted).
- A dry well.
- A drainage ditch.
- A lower area of the property.
Concrete French Drains
Common uses
French drains are often installed to:
- Prevent water from pooling in a yard.
- Protect basements and crawl spaces from water intrusion.
- Reduce hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls.
- Drain water behind retaining walls.
- Divert runoff away from patios and driveways.
Advantages
- Helps prevent flooding and water damage.
- Can improve lawn usability.
- Generally requires little maintenance when installed correctly.
- Can last 20–30 years or more with proper materials and installation.
Best uses; Driveways, patios, sidewalks, and pads.
