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 360-694-5847
management@drainagemasters.com

Vancouver (360) 694-5847

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Vancouver (360) 694-5847

Portland (503) 292-2454

French Drains - Your Solution to Water Woes!

Mar 08, 2024

A Dependable Solution: French Drains

French drain built beside a patio

When confronted with water intrusion and soggy landscapes, homeowners can often experience frustration. However, there’s a dependable solution: a french drain. At Drainage Masters, we know firsthand the impact a well-placed french drain can have on properties. They can offer a wide variety of appeal, not just serving your water relocation needs, but by adding an attractive feature to your landscape. They reduce soil erosion, and by curbing stormwater runoff they contribute to a healthier ecosystem and a more resilient landscape. We utilize them for a variety of reasons:

Exceptional Water Management

French drain with a T connection

French drains are incredibly effective at managing water. Whether you're contending with torrential downpours, persistent groundwater seepage, or runoff from adjacent properties, they provide a reliable, and exceptional, means of redirecting water away from vulnerable areas. French drains alleviate soil saturation and by preventing pooling water, they also act as a protective barrier for your home and landscape.


French drains are essential components of effective drainage systems, designed to draw out soil saturation by providing a path of least resistance for water to follow. They are versatile solutions used to address various drainage issues, including surface runoff and pooling. Unlike footing drains, which are typically installed deep below the foundation of a structure, French drains are situated closer to the surface, typically about one to two feet deep. Their primary function is to collect surface water runoff, subsurface saturation, and redirect it away from vulnerable areas.

How Does a French Drain Work?

Graphic depicting french drain water flow

In terms of drainage pathways, water collected by french drains typically flows towards existing drainage systems, such as municipal storm drains or roadside ditches. Alternatively, it may be directed towards specialized water infiltration systems like drywells, which allow water to percolate into the ground gradually. French drains play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and dryness of properties in various environmental conditions.


We offer two primary types of French drains: sand drain French drains and traditional French drains, which utilize drain rock. Sand drain systems are designed to consistently draw out soil saturation and are particularly effective for this purpose. On the other hand, traditional French drains primarily address immediate surface water issues and may also help draw out saturation from the surrounding area laterally.


Sand drains are typically installed beneath new lawns to prevent saturation and promote healthy turf growth. The sand acts as a natural filter, allowing for effective drainage while also accommodating the placement of organic materials on top of the drain. This setup ensures that the lawn remains free from waterlogging, promoting optimal conditions for lush, vibrant grass.

A Tailored Drainage Solution

French drain with a surface area drain on top, during building

One of the greatest strengths of french drains lies in their adaptability. No two drainage challenges are exactly alike, which is why french drains can be customized to suit a wide range of needs. Whether you're dealing with surface water runoff cascading down a slope, subsurface water infiltration causing basement dampness, or a combination of both, French drains can be strategically installed to address the specific contours and dynamics of your landscape.


While a typical french drain is typically installed about one to two feet deep, there are two other forms of french drains which can remedy deeper, subsurface water concerns:


A footing drain is a specific type of french drain that serves the purpose of diverting subsurface water flow. Positioned deeper in the ground, often below the footing of a building, footing drains act as barriers to channel water away from the structure's foundation. This strategic placement helps to prevent water from infiltrating basements or crawl spaces, safeguarding the integrity of the building's foundation.


A curtain drain serves as a protective barrier against subsurface water flow. Positioned at a distance from the property, it shares similarities with footing drains but is strategically placed further away from the home. The primary objective of a curtain drain is to create a buffer zone, effectively halting the advancement of water towards the property and redirecting it to alternative pathways. By acting as a shield against potential water intrusion, curtain drains play a vital role in safeguarding the integrity and dryness of the home's surroundings.

French Drains have Minimal Maintenance Requirements

French drain in landscaping

French drains are renowned for their durability and minimal maintenance needs when installed correctly. While it's essential to keep organic matter such as grass and leaves from accumulating on the surface, the filtration system of layers of rock or sand and fabric ensures that the interior of the drain remains unobstructed and primed to efficiently handle water flow for a long period of time. 


However, over time, factors like sediment buildup or shifting soil may necessitate rehabilitation. This process typically involves removing and replacing the top layer of rock or sand to uphold the drain's cleanliness and optimize its performance, ensuring continued effectiveness in keeping your landscape dry and well-drained for many years to come.

French Drains Increase Curb Appeal

French drain beside a patio

Beyond their functional benefits, french drains can also enhance the visual appeal of your property. By eliminating unsightly puddles, soggy patches, and erosion-prone areas, they create a cleaner, more polished landscape that's sure to impress. Say goodbye to muddy messes and hello to a lush, vibrant outdoor space that beckons you to linger outdoors.


French drains offer versatility in their design, allowing for creative and aesthetically pleasing installations such as mimicking a creek bed or pathway. By incorporating natural elements like rocks, gravel, and landscaping, French drains can seamlessly blend into outdoor spaces while effectively managing water drainage.

How is a French Drain Built?

Perforated pipe in a fabric lined trench

French drains are constructed in layers, starting with the excavation of a trench. In a traditional french drain installation, the trench is lined with filter fabric. Next, a perforated pipe is placed at the bottom of the trench, followed by a layer of drain rock. The filter fabric is then wrapped around the top of the trench, serving as a protective barrier, and another layer of drain rock is added to complete the drain. This top layer of rock remains visible and serves as the entry point for surface water to flow into the pipe below.


In a sand-drain french drain setup, a filter-lined pipe known as drain guard is placed at the bottom of the trench. This drain guard pipe, similar to a perforated pipe, is wrapped in filter fabric to prevent sand from entering the french drain pipe. The trench is then filled with sand, with the filter fabric aiding in keeping the sand contained. The top of the sand-drain french drain is often covered with a well-draining soil mix, allowing it to seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape.

Does a French Drain Require a Permit?

Typically, obtaining a permit is not necessary for this type of work. However, regulations vary between cities and counties, and occasionally a permit may be required. If that's the case, rest assured that we can take care of the permitting process on your behalf. Upon completion, we will provide you with a copy of the approved permit for your records. Your satisfaction and our compliance with local regulations is our top priority!


If you feel you may need a french drain, we offer free estimates, and a comprehensive warranty.

Before French Drain Install
After French Drain & Path Install
26 Mar, 2024
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