Is French Drain Installation a Good DIY Project?
Poor drainage systems can be a major problem for homeowners. Excess water that isn’t directed away from your home can find its way into your basement. If this happens, homeowners must worry about a wide range of possible concerns, including water damage, foundation damage, and mold growth.
To prevent these scenarios from happening, homeowners may consider installing a French drain. DIY enthusiasts can be tempted to try this job on their own, but taking on such a project can pose several challenges for anyone who isn’t familiar with French drain installation.
Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions provides services to homeowners and businesses throughout the Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware tri-state area. Here, we discuss what installing a French drain entails and why homeowners might be better served by hiring a professional.
What Is a French Drain?
A simple yet effective drainage system, a French drain is a trench, usually with a perforated pipe, which redirects surface water and groundwater away from a structure. Often mistaken for trench drains because they feature a rock trench and piping, French drains are typically lined with gravel or rock, or sometimes both. Landscaping fabric helps to ensure drains remain clear of any unwanted debris, such as weeds, dirt, or other items.
French drains are often the preferred drainage system of homeowners because they can seamlessly blend into the landscaping. This allows homeowners to create a pleasing aesthetic that can take on water at multiple points.
How Does a French Drain Work?
When installed correctly, French drains allow water to easily pass through. This prevents excess water from pooling and making its way to areas you don’t want. Instead, water will seep into the gravel or stone, and through the holes in the perforated pipe. Water is then carried to a drainage area away from your home. In most cases, water is moved to a municipal sewer system.
Common Challenges of French Drain Installation
French drain installation doesn’t simply entail digging a trench in your yard. Several factors must be taken into consideration to ensure the job is done right. One of the most important aspects of French drain installation that homeowners often overlook is zoning regulations. Your newly installed French drain should divert water away from your home but not at the expense of anyone else’s property. If your French drain negatively impacts your neighbor’s land, you may be responsible for any damages.
Additionally, homeowners attempting to install a French drain must be aware of building codes, community rules, or zoning laws that could restrict drainage projects in their area. These types of jobs sometimes require approved permits. Before getting started, it’s wise for homeowners to first confirm their plans with the appropriate authorities.
Underground gas and utility lines can create challenges for homeowners, as well. Accidentally hitting utility lines can be extremely problematic and even result in injuries.
Our French Drain Installation Services
At Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions, we provide drainage services to clients, including French drain installation. Before we begin digging, we first inspect the client’s property to pinpoint where the French drain will be most effective. Additionally, we look for any potential obstacles we may face during installation, such as gas and utility lines.
Once our team confirms it’s safe to dig and we’ve acquired any necessary permits, we begin creating the drainage solution. We place perforated pipes into the ground and cover them with drainage gravel. We can decorate the French drain to make it appear like it’s a part of the landscape.
We offer clients a free consultation to give them a better idea of what the project entails. Clients will be provided a free estimate, so they know exactly what their financial responsibility is. To better serve our clients, our services are backed with a lifetime warranty and are available with 0% financing.
Discover More at Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions
If your basement keeps flooding due to poor drainage, turn to the collaborative team at Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions. As a part of our basement waterproofing services, we offer a variety of drainage solutions, including French drain installation. Using the best technology and materials, we can effectively divert water away from your home, keeping your basement dry and your home safe.
We offer our drainage services to clients in our service areas in the Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware tri-state area. Contact us today to learn more.
