A Guide to French Drains

If you notice pooling water in your lawn or landscaping, you might wonder how to improve drainage. French drains are systems that can effectively divert excess moisture away from your property. Here's what you should know about these drains and why a landscaping contractor should install them on your lot. 

FAQ About French Drains

How do they work?

French drains consist of trenches filled with perforated pipes and gravel. As excess moisture produced by rainfall or your irrigation system collects in the trenches, the fluid enters openings in the pipes. These tubes transport the water downhill and into sewage drains. The gravel in the trenches can assist with moisture absorption, as these rocks may leach fluids from the surrounding soil.

What does installation entail?

Installing French drains necessitates digging trenches of about one-half foot wide and 1 foot deep. Landscaping contractors typically install them in low-lying areas of the property and position them so they slope downhill. They'll fill the trenches with a layer of gravel before placing the perforated pipes and covering the latter with more gravel. They may add filtering fabric over the gravel to prevent dirt and debris from clogging holes in the pipes. Finally, they'll cover the trench with topsoil and make the ground level with the surrounding earth. 

What are their benefits?

Since French drains divert excess moisture, they can prevent your lawn and landscapes from becoming over-watered. This may keep pathogenic fungi, which often reproduce in damp environments, from growing on foliage roots and causing rot diseases. Additionally, these drains can prevent water from pooling onto driveway and walkway surfaces, which may reduce the risk of slips and falls while traversing these areas. These drains can also keep fluids from pooling around your home structure and putting pressure on the foundation, which may prevent cracks in the concrete and indoor leaks. 

What maintenance do they require?

When installed professionally, French drains may last several decades. You can keep them in good condition and prolong their life span by avoiding planting anything directly above them. This may prevent roots from blocking or breaking into the pipes, which can help you avoid the need for repairs. If you ever notice moisture pooling near your drains, a landscaping contractor might need to clear out any clogged pipes or replace damaged segments to restore the proper diversion of fluids.

If you need outdoor drainage solutions, get in touch with Buzz Landscaping Inc. They provide French drains along with landscape design, installation, and maintenance to clients throughout Conway, AR. Call (501) 730-4515 to request an estimate from this landscaping contractor, and visit the website to learn more about how they can improve your lawn and gardens.