Efficient drainage protects your home's foundation and prevents outside water from entering the home. If you are having trouble getting water to drain away from the structure, hiring excavating contractors to install a French drain is a functional solution that doesn't detract from the property. If you have questions about this installation, below are answers to several of the most common.

What You Should Know About French Drains

What are they?

A French drain is a trench filled with gravel that contains a perforated pipe. Excavating contractors install this device in a low area of a property, which allows gravity to pull water into the drain naturally. Rain and melting snow travel through the pipe and away from the landscape. Depending on the drain’s configuration, it may travel to a storm drain in the street or a basin on your property that resembles a small pond.

Why are they beneficial?

By allowing water to flow efficiently away from your property, you can prevent soil erosion. This keeps dirt from entering nearby waterways and contributing to sediment buildup. Excessive sediment in a local waterway causes it to flood quickly during storms, often resulting in property damage.

A French drain also prevents oversaturation of your lawn and plants and protects your foundation and basement because the water won't pool around the home. If water infiltrates foundation cracks, the resulting freeze and thaw cycles cause those cracks to expand, contributing to structural shifts. By preventing this, you can avoid mold issues and water damage inside.

Will a French drain affect my property’s appearance? 

Depending on the location of the lower section of the property, excavating contractors can install the drain in an inconspicuous area. Many French drains enhance landscapes because they feature colorful gravel or large rocks, and are surrounded by vegetation. You can also plant ornamental grasses and ground-cover vegetation to control soil erosion and boost the property's appearance.

How long does one last?

With proper installation, a French drain can last several decades. The perforated pipe is usually made from polyvinyl chloride, which resists corrosion and offers impressive durability. You can also cover the pipe with water-permeable landscaping fabric that inhibits weed growth and clogs. This prevents roots from cracking the pipe, which would require you to replace it.

If you want to install a French drain on your property, contact Hillside Landscaping & Excavating in Campbell, AK. These excavating contractors can help resolve a variety of foundation and drainage issues to protect your property. They install helical piers, perform house leveling, and even erect retaining walls. Call (907) 522-4457 to request an estimate, and visit them online for more information about their services.