For many homeowners, businesses, and builders, problems with property flooding can be a serious problem. French drains have been used as a water drainage system since 1859. It is a rock or gravel lined trench that redirects ground and surface water away from an area. The pipes for this drain are normally made of PVC. A French drain can have hollow pipes drilled along the bottom that quickly expel water that seeps through the upper rock or gravel. The filter cloth is placed on top of the pipe to prevent debris from blocking the holes. An installed drain has a slope to assist with drainage. The drainage process is based on the law of gravity. That is, the water is transported from a great height to a lower one.

French drains are primarily used to prevent ground and surface water from seeping into the foundations of buildings, however there are many reasons why people will install one to redirect surface and ground water. These drains are often used to remove excess water from low areas or extremely humid areas of the property. This type of area is often found at the back of a home, at the foot of a slope, and in places where too much runoff is directed into an area of ​​property.

A French drain is used for drainage in landscaping. For a garden, this drain redirects groundwater runoff to a garden irrigation system. Also, this drain is often used to protect the foundation of a house or other structure, such as a storage building or garage. It will prevent excess ground or surface water from flooding the structure.

These have been used to drain water from a septic tank and have been used as a backing for a retaining wall by providing relief from groundwater pressure. In addition, it is often placed along the property lines between two contiguous lots. The drain will carry the water from the higher area to a lower area as it flows through the pipe.

When installing a drain, you have the ability to select where the water will flow. Compared to other drainage systems, French drains are quite inexpensive. They are also quite easy to install. To ensure you install it correctly, it may be wise to hire a professional, especially if you are not sure you have the knowledge to do the installation properly.

When you install a French drain, it will collect the groundwater and redirect the water to a lower area of ​​land of your choice. The most effective French drainage design is a design that allows water to flow freely from the trench to the surface of the property area. A French drain is a very affordable and easy method of diverting surface and groundwater from an area that can flood and cause property damage. If you have problems with excess water and flooding, a French drain may be the solution for you.