French Drains: What They Are and How They Help

Water problems around a home’s foundation, basement or crawlspace can quickly lead to the need for costly repairs. A yard drainage system can divert water away from the structure and preserve its integrity. Among the most popular outdoor draining methods are French drain systems, which can be installed by our water draining experts at Andy’s Sprinkler, Drainage, & Lighting Services.

What Are French Drains?

French drains are trenched areas around a property. They include a perforated pipe covered with layers of rock or gravel. Surface and ground water collect in the pipe, which is angled or sloped away from the structure to promote draining of water.

How French Drains Work

By collecting the water that would otherwise flow toward or seep into the foundation of a structure, French drains protect the integrity of the slab or foundation. Water can simply be diverted to the property further away from the house or it can be channeled into the waste water system. On properties with a septic tank, the water can be diverted to the septic system.

Benefits Homeowners Can Reap From a French Drain

French drains offer many benefits to homeowners, the most popular of which include:

• Economical to install and maintain.
• Do not require electricity or fuel to operate. They will function even in the event of a power outage.
• Can usually be installed within one day.
• Does not require that the entire yard be dug up or trenched.

If water intrusion or a damp basement is a problem in your home, our Dallas drainage company is here to help. We have installed French drain systems around a variety of homes, including those built into hills and those with finished living spaces below grade. For more information about how this type of a drain system will benefit your specific home, call us at Andy’s Sprinkler, Drainage, & Lighting Services today at 972-418-6998.