French Drain Installation
A French drain is a simple but effective way to manage groundwater around a home. It is essentially a trench filled with rock and a perforated pipe that collects and redirects excess water away from areas where it can cause damage. When water reaches the trench, it naturally follows the path of least resistance, drops into the pipe, and moves to a safer place. The goal is to keep water away from the foundation so the soil stays stable and the home does not shift or settle.
When to Consider a French Drain
A French drain is worth considering any time water is pooling near the house, collecting in low spots, or sitting against the foundation after rain. Standing water can soften the soil and allow the slab to drop even an inch or two, which is enough to cause cracks, sticking doors, and uneven floors. Homes at the bottom of a slope, homes with poor grading, or homes next to neighbors who do not manage their runoff often need a drainage solution to keep their property dry.
French drains also help address issues like mold growth, mosquito breeding, erosion, and water working its way into small cracks. During long periods of rain, North San Antonio can receive heavy, fast-moving storms. If the water has nowhere to go, it collects against the house and causes long-term problems.
Installation From Start to Finish
Installing a French drain begins with a survey of the property. We use a transit to measure elevation and determine how water naturally flows. These measurements tell us where to move soil, where to place the drain, and how deep the trench needs to be. Once the layout is set, we mark the system and dig the trench.
The perforated pipe is placed at the proper slope, surrounded by rock to allow water to pass through freely. From there, we connect the system to a safe discharge point such as a curb, gutter, storm drain, or sump pump if gravity cannot move the water. When the system is complete, we backfill and restore any landscaping that was disturbed.
One common misconception is confusing French drains with area drains. A French drain handles subsurface water and slow saturation. An area drain handles large amounts of surface runoff. Another misconception is thinking water will move uphill. If the land does not slope, a pump is required. Understanding these points helps homeowners choose the right solution for their property.
