French Drain Systems: When You Need Them

If you are like most homeowners, you probably don't think about your drainage system until there is a problem. And when there is a problem, it's usually a big one! In today’s blog entry, we will discuss what a French drain is, when you might need one for your property, and what you can expect after it has been installed. At Ray Lawns, we have been helping people in Chattanooga & Ooltewah with their lawn care, landscaping, and French drain installations for years, and we would love to be able to help you, too. Keep water away from your home by calling us today.

What Is A French Drain System?

French drains are a type of drainage system that is commonly used to remove water from an area, most commonly away from your foundation or low parts of your yard. The system consists of a perforated pipe that sits within a trench that is filled with gravel or other types of drainage material. A French drain is typically installed around the perimeter of a building or in an area where water tends to pool. The drain helps to redirect water away from the structure and prevents foundation problems or water damage. French drains are also often used in gardens or on farms to improve drainage and prevent flooding.

When You Need A French Drain

Below are a few of the most common reasons that people need to have a French drain installed on their property, but it is not a comprehensive list. If you aren’t sure what your best drainage solution is, please get in touch with Ray Lawns. We can take a look at your property and suggest drainage based on our years of experience.
- If water is draining into your basement
- You’re having troubles with surface water
-Your yard is frequently soggy
- Your driveway is washed out
- You have, or are building, a retaining wall on a slope

How Much Work Does It Take To Install A French Drain

There are many factors that contribute to how big or small of a job a French drain can be. If you are experiencing leaking in your basement, the job can be substantially larger than if you had a small amount of standing water in your yard. If the moisture in your basement is severe, a relatively deep trench may be needed to help mitigate the damage caused by the water.

What Can I Expect After The Installation Of A French Drain?

When a French drain is installed correctly, you will notice an almost immediate reduction in the amount of standing water in your yard and in your basement. Over time, you’ll notice that your yard floods less and that there is less moisture against the foundation of your home. At Ray Lawns, our team of landscaping experts have been installing French drains for years, so they know how to do the job correctly the first time. Having a French drain put in the right way is the most surefire way to see a reduction in moisture around your property.