How Do I Know If I Need a French Drain?

Standing water in your yard is always a problem. After a heavy bout of rain or when a thick layer of snow finally melts in the spring, your yard can look like a sodden mess. The question is, is there anything you can do about it? The good news is that the answer to that question is “yes!” – you can improve the condition of your yard after heavy rain or snow by installing a french drain.

If you have no idea what a french drain is, then there is no need to worry as we are here to explain all about french drains – what are they, what they do, how you know if you need one, and how do you go about getting one installed?

All You Need to Know About French Drains – What They Are and What They Do

Water typically stands on land because there is nowhere for it to go. Beneath your yard, the earth has probably become compacted, making it hard for the water to trickle down. Because there is so much water, it takes a long time – sometimes several days – for the sun to evaporate everything away. Of course, if there is further rainfall, the problem with standing water will get even worse!

French drains help the water to trickle away from the surface. They are installed beneath the surface of your yard using a series of perforated pipes. Once lain, they are covered with drainage gravel and, finally, the upper surface of your yard so that they are entirely out of sight. The pipes are also usually coated with water-permeable fabric, which helps prevent weeds and other debris from penetrating and blocking the pipes.

So, with a French Drain, standing water finds it much easier to trickle beneath the surface of your yard. The water will then find its way into the pipe, which is so angled that it will be deposited into a convenient place, such as a drainage ditch or a rainwater drain.

A French Drain Installation Can Help With Other Water Invasive Factors

Having patches of standing water that won’t drain away might seem trivial, but it can cause several unseen problems. When the water finally goes away, it has to go somewhere; without proper drainage, that water could end up where it is not desired. For example, the water may find its way into your foundation, causing cracks and weakening the foundation wall. It will also promote the growth of mold, mildew, and other problematic substances within your basement or crawlspace. In addition, mosquitos and other annoying insects adore standing water, providing them with a perfect breeding ground!

So, how can you tell if you need a french drain? Patches of standing water in your yard that will not drain away are a clear indication. Still, if water is getting into your basement or crawlspace without any obvious idea of where it is coming from, that could be a sign that water from your yard is ending up inside your home. Also, if you have external walls showing signs of weakening, that could be evidence that the drainage properties of your yard are inadequate.

If you want to inquire about installing a french drain or for any other waterproofing solution, please feel free to contact Tom’s Basement Waterproofing. We can help you with basement waterproofing, foundation repair, and other exterior maintenance services. Call our team at (586) 949-7826 or (586) 776-7270 or contact us online.