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!