Which way does water flow? Downhill. This is the exact way a French Drain works. It is a slightly sloped trench filled with round gravel and a pipe that diverts water away from your home.
How does a French Drain work?
The basic job for a French Drain is to make an easy channel for the water to move through. Water will run into a gravel filled trench and then into a pipe at the bottom of the trench. The water will travel through the pipe and be poured out a good distance away from your home.
French Drain Facts
If you are building a retaining wall, add a French Drain behind the first course of stones or blocks. If you do not do this the water moving down hill will build up behind the wall and undermine it. The pipe needs to rest on the same compacted gravel base or concrete footing that will support the wall.
Is your problem surface water?
If your problem is surface water than you need to install a shallow French Drain. This drain extends across your property directly uphill of the area you want it dry out. It will intercept the water and channel it around the soggy spot.
Is water going into your basement?
If water is getting into your basement you need to stop this flow immediately before any major damage happens. We suggest a deep French Drain that runs around the perimeter of the house at the footing level and intercepts water before it can go into your home. It is very easy to install during your home construction but much more difficult if your home has already been built.
Edens Structural Solutions
We know that you probably do not know much about French Drains or any other sort of drains. But having a little knowledge here and there can help you if an emergency every shows up. Call us today for any questions you might have.
