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A French drain (also called a weeping tile, drain tile, perimeter drain or sub-surface drain) is a common basement waterproofing solution. It’s a trench containing a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from the foundation.
Will a French drain prevent water in basement?
In fact, it keeps the basement dry by preventing the water from developing the pressure it takes to enter the basement in the first place. A French drain, often called “drain tile,” installed inside or outside the foundation, will keep most basements dry and never requires maintenance or replacement.
What is the purpose of a French drain in a basement?
Exterior French drains function to divert water around the exterior perimeter of your house. Interior French drains, on the other hand, function to divert and carry away water and moisture out from the interior of your basement. This is one of the most effective systems for treating severe damp problems in basements.
Do I need a French drain in basement?
Why It is Important to Know About a French Drain in the Basement. If you are having water problems in your basement, you may need a French drain. What is this? It is a trench that has a perforated pipe that takes the groundwater and surface water and diverts them away from the home.
Is a French drain a good idea?
French drain systems are incredibly effective because, unlike typical surface drains, they collect water over the entire length of the drain as opposed to one dedicated area. The force of gravity helps to guide water along a reliably smooth path to a desired discharge point.
Where do French drains go?
These drains are used to direct surface water or groundwater away from a specific area, such as a home’s foundation. French drains direct surface level water toward the lowest point and allow it to seep through the surface level gravel into the drain.
What dies a French drain do?
French drains are primarily used to prevent ground and surface water from penetrating or damaging building foundations and as an alternative to open ditches or storm sewers for streets and highways.
Do I need a sump pump or French drain?
Activates When Needed French drains are passive, which means there is nothing to ‘turn on’ during a heavy storm or flood. Sump pumps on the other hand activate as soon as the float starts to rise. This means that as long as the pump can drain more water than can enter the pit the basement will not flood.
Where does basement drain go?
Your basement floor drain is located at the lowest point of your basement, and its job is to direct any water safely away from the house and to the sewer system or municipal storm drain system.
How much slope does a French drain need?
French drains need to have a slope of at least 1 percent, so the force of gravity will work for you. This means that the drain should slope down a total of at least one inch for every 10 feet of pipe.
Do French drains cause mold?
French drains are only installed on properties prone or likely to flood. These systems collect water and move it away from the basement walls so it won’t penetrate. If it does, it can cause damp, mold, structural damage, and more problems. For these reasons, it’s important to stay on top of maintaining a French drain.
What can I use instead of a French drain?
5 Alternatives to French Drains Sump Pumps. Dry Wells. A dry well can add drainage without the need for an electrical or sewage line connection. Stairs, Steps or a Ramp. Landscaping. Valleys or Ditches. Gutters.
What is the difference between a French drain and a trench drain?
Aside from what we’ve listed here, the difference between a French drain and a trench drain is that a French drain is used for water that is underground while a trench drain diverts excess water from a surface.
Does French drain need an outlet?
A properly designed French drain system does not require an outlet. The water will simply soak into the soil as it flows along the perforated pipe. In fact, a French drain doesn’t require an inlet on just one end either.
How long do French drains last?
Generally speaking, a French drain will last approximately 30 to 40 years.
How do you know if you need a French drain?
How do I know if I need a French drain? You’ll know you need a French drain if water is an issue in your house. The most common problem is water getting into your basement. Also consider a French drain if standing water outside of your home is an issue.
How far away from foundation should a French drain be?
Recommended French Drain Installation Distance We recommend installing the french drains between 2 and 5 feet away from the foundation. There are a few variables that impact the exact distance to dig the new drain lines to carry water away from your home.
How do you tell if you have a French drain?
French drains are designed to collect rainwater and channel it downhill. If surface water is standing in low areas of the yard that are supposed to flow into your French drain, you have a drainage problem. If the low areas of your yard are as firm and dry as higher spots, then your French drain is working as expected.
What does a French drain connect to?
An outdoor French drain is a trench you cover in rocks. It’s connected to pipes to guide water away from your home. The first part of French drains is the elevated or higher end, referred to as a drain field. The drain field is where the groundwater or excess surface water enters the drainpipes.
