French drains are a very effective way to move water away from an area where it can cause problems. It collects water below the surface of the soil. So, unlike a catch basin, you don’t see it working. Properly installed, you will know it is working because the problem areas will quickly improve.
What is a French Drain?
Installing the French drain requires digging a trench with an appropriate slope away from the problem area. Many contractors fail to properly slope the drains, which doesn’t solve the problem. Once the correct slope is achieved, we place a pipe with holes in it into the trench. The pipe is wrapped in special long-lasting filter fabric to keep dirt, rocks and debris out of the pipe. Once wrapped, the French drain system is totally enclosed. We then backfill the trench with gravel.
French drains work by collecting the water that filters through the gravel and into the system. It travels through the holes in the pipe to the bottom of the trench and then flows away from the area. This is why proper slope is so important. The water flows away from the problem area along the slope of the pipe.
Do I Need a French Drain?
Water problems can damage your buildings, landscaping and lawn. It is important to correct issues before they cause irreparable harm to your property, which may create expensive repair work. Because of the technical requirements needed to install the drains, it is not a do-it-yourself job. The professionals at EarthCare Landscape Management have over 18 years in the landscape industry, and we have corrected drainage problems on all types of residential and commercial properties.
Signs of a water problem include soggy soil, failing landscapes, shifting patios, standing water or efflorescence. Our experts can determine the solution you need. Our commitment to customer service means if you don’t need French drains, we will recommend the correct solution. We select the right drainage for your property, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
If you notice any of these problems, do not delay correcting them. Contact us immediately for a free consultation and get the water flowing the right way.