French drains are one of the most effective home drainage systems. Their simple design consists of a ditch with a perforated pipe placed at the bottom. This pipe is then covered by gravel to easily allow water to enter the ditch and pipe. The excess water will then flow to more appropriate places like your municipal drainage system. French drains are often used for soggy yards, basement flooding, crawlspace moisture, and foundation protection. They have been in use for over 160 years. Here are a few more interesting facts about French drains that you probably didn’t know.
- The trench is designed to run downwards to encourage the correct movement of water. It must begin at a high point and end low.
- French drains need a 1% slope to work effectively.
- The wider the trench the better. More water can enter a wider trench. But considerations for yard size and moisture needed will be used to determine the most appropriate width of trench for your property.
- Placement is important. You don’t want your French drain to pass through important areas like playgrounds. We can help you determine where the most effective placement will be.
- French drains were named after Henry Flagg French who thought of the design in Massachusetts in 1859.
For more information about French drains and to see if they would be a good fit for your yard, give us a call at Laurdane Associates. We have more than 30 years of experience and can create an effective solution for any of your drainage problems. When you contact us, we will set up a consultation to discuss the issues you are having and determine the best solution for your property. We will investigate for you to determine an innovative solution that matches your individual needs.