French Drains

A French drain is ideal if the ground stays wet long after rain. A trench drain is better if water flows across the surface during storms.

Water seeps into the gravel, enters the holes in the perforated pipe, and flows downhill to a safe discharge point such as:

• A storm drain (where permitted)
• A drainage ditch
• A dry well
• A lower area of the property

• Prevent water from pooling in yards
• Protect house foundations from water damage
• Keep basements or crawl spaces drier
• Drain soggy garden beds
• Divert runoff away from driveways and patios

A typical French drain consists of:

1. A trench (usually 12–24 inches deep, depending on the application)
2. Landscape fabric lining the trench
3. A layer of washed gravel
4. A perforated drain pipe (typically 4 inches in diameter)
5. More gravel surrounding the pipe
6. Landscape fabric wrapped over the gravel to keep out soil
7. Topsoil, sod, or decorative stone to finish the surface

• Effectively removes standing water
• Relatively low maintenance when installed correctly
• Can last 20–40 years
• Can be hidden beneath grass or landscaping