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French Drain Installation, Maintenance, & Repairs

What is a French Drain? | Discount Plumbing Rooter

A French drain is a trench filled with gravel and/or rocks as well as a perforated pipe. The trench is built on a sloping axis in order to keep water flowing through the pipe and prevent overflow of the drainage system. Typically, French drains are installed in problem areas where water pools, often leading standing water away from buildings or other structures that could be damaged from the excess moisture.

How Does a French Drain Work? | Discount Plumbing Rooter

Water enters the drain from the ground above by seeping through the gravel and rocks which fill the trench. Gravity takes its course from there and the water eventually seeps through the perforations in the bottom of the pipe and begins to flow steadily downstream. The aggregate which fills the trench also serves as a filter for the water that enters the drain. The rocks and gravel which fill the trench work to filter out larger organic matter like leaves, pine needles, or branches, preventing clogs or blockages in the drain system.

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French Drain Installation

With the functionality of French drains primarily relying on physics, it is imperative that the drain trench be dug out with the correct amount of slope. It’s also crucial to have a planned end location of the French drain where the water will be redirected to. The experts at Discount Plumbing are well equipped to help determine an appropriate solution for water re-direction. Having installed a countless number of French drains, Discount Plumbing is the top choice for new French drain installation for commercial or residential properties.

French Drain Maintenance

Like any type of drainage system, your French drain’s efficiency is at its maximum potential when the drain is well maintained and clean. Over time, sediment and mud can build up inside your French drain pipe and cause water backup, reducing the effectiveness of your drain. Underground drainage systems are also subject to interference from plant and tree roots. Other potential problems that can arise from a blockage in your French drain system include mold or even structural damage.

It is best practice to clean out your French drain at least on an annual basis. Discount Plumbing has the tools and expertise necessary when it comes to keeping your drainage clear and well-functioning. Our technicians can quickly and effectively clean out your system and remove tough blockages when necessary.

How Do I Know if My French Drain is Blocked? | Discount Plumbing Rooter

It’s easy to test how well your French drain is working by simply using a garden hose. This can be done by either locating the ground level access point and running water into it, or simply running water into any area of your trench. Wait a few minutes for the water to begin to soak into your trench, and then monitor the outflow. If the water is pooling up faster than it is draining then it is time for a maintenance call.

Is My French Drain Installed Correctly?

If you’ve cleaned and cleared your French drain but it is still not draining efficiently, it may not have been installed properly. Two possible causes of an improperly installed French other than a clog are inadequate sloping or the possibility that your drain pipe is upside down. Often times, DIY installations by previous property owners or simply uneducated installation by non reputable sources run the risk of laying a French drain incorrectly.

French drains should be installed with a pre-determined high point and low point at each end. These two end points should be connected by at least a 1% slope, and no closer than about one meter from the nearest structure.

One installation mistake that is often seen with French drains is the perforations in the pipe oriented incorrectly. The holes of the French drain should be facing down. If your French drain has holes facing upwards towards the sky, it has unfortunately been installed incorrectly. Fortunately, our team at Discount Plumbing has seen it all and has over 20 years of experience installing, maintaining, and repairing all types of drainage systems. We offer free estimates and lightning fast 24/7 services. If you need help with your French Drain, call Discount Plumbing!

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