What are French drains and why???

French drains are mainly used to direct water away from foundations of houses. They can be used to drain water from low spots in yards and can be used as a drainage ditch. They can be connected directly to gutter downspouts and create an efficient water drainage system. Finally, they can be used behind retaining walls to relieve ground water pressure. They are highly versatile and only limited by your imagination! If you would like to see a STEP by STEP photo How-to of the construction of a French Drain go to our French Drain How-to section!


The trench should be approximately 1'-2' deep and at least 12” wide. Rule of thumb for the grade of the drain is typically 2 foot for every 100 feet. This will allow proper water flow! You can use a carpenters level to ensure the grade is proper. The French drain will take water away from the foundation usually to the corner of the yard or towards the street. A "proper" French drain consists of a pipe with slits or holes to allow water to enter, enclosed in a filter sock (this is mandatory and essential to the longevity of the pipe) to prevent soil from clogging the holes. The pipe is surrounded by at least 2" of gravel on all sides. You should also wrap the gravel in a filter. Once the pipe is in place with the gravel and filter surrounding it, you may lay any material over it you please. It is important to note that any material you lay over the drain will settle over time so be sure to tamp and/or "build-up" the material higher than the surronding ground.

A properly constructed French drain can last indefinitely; on the other hand an improperly constructed French drain can fail in as little as a year.
An improperly installed French drain can leak water into your foundation, crack your concrete, create a perfect condition for mold growth in drywall or wood, and a variety of other expensive damages. The French drain should be installed with the long-term in mind, so don’t take any shortcuts!

If you are in need of Virginia Beach French drains, Chesapeake French drains, Norfolk French drains, or any other Hampton Roads drainage solutions call Total Landscape at 757-773-7025 for a free, no-obligation consultation!

Choosing The Right Contractor

Choosing The Right Contractor

The dangers of using a truck and ladder contractor

Many truck and ladder contractors are not licensed and the majority of those that are only have a B or C license. It is important that your contractor has the proper insurance for your project. The best way to find out is to ask, if the contractor gives you the run-around, move on. Only a Class A licensed contractor can modify an existing wall on your home. If a Class B or C licensed contractor modifies an existing wall on your home you, the homeowner, may be liable for damages incurred due to improper construction. Premier Contractors always maintain the proper licenses.

Many truck and ladder contractors do not carry the proper insurance and if an accident occurs on your property, you could be held liable, regardless of fault. Premier Contractors always carries current Workman’s Compensation and General Liability insurance to protect the homeowner. Ask your contractor to show proof of current insurance to be absolutely certain you are protected.

Many truck and ladder contractors only carry a cell phone and don’t maintain an office with a phone. They do this to limit their exposure to customers. Truck and ladder contractors can screen their calls on a cell phone and only return the calls that they choose to. Most Premier Contractors maintain fully-staffed offices which are readily accessible. Most can be reached 9-5pm Monday through Friday and promptly return after hours calls.

Many truck and ladder contractors require large upfront deposits to finance your project. Contractors requiring large deposits may have little or no cash due to pending lawsuits or poor cash flow management.

Many truck and ladder contractors will require you, the homeowner, to pull the building permit. Contractors who require you to pull the permit are typically in arrears with the city or do not have the correct license or insurance. When you pull the permit you bear all the risk and liability associated with your home improvement project.