How to Fix a Faulty French Drain

French drains basically consist of a ditch with a perforated pipe in the bottom covered over by gravel. They are invisible, inexpensive and when properly installed will provide years of trouble-free service. Common uses of French drains are around the foundations of houses and behind retaining walls. If you have water seeping up through your foundation or out of your retaining wall you might have a faulty French drain.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Check where the water is supposed to drain out. This needs to be a clear area where silt and water can run off easily. French drains often become backed up because of problems at the downspout.
2. Dig up the drain to see what the problem is. Any number of common problems can cause a French drain to back up. Set the gravel aside from the drain and clean it.
3. Check that the depth of the pipe is sufficient. The pipe in a French drain should always be below the bottom of whatever piece of architecture it is protecting. Be sure it is below the bottom of the foundation or retaining wall with the down spout at the lowest point in the whole ditch.
4. Inspect the pipe for damages or clogs. Even the best laid pipe will eventually begin to fill up with fine silt after years of run off. Clean this out if necessary.
5. Make sure that the pipe is at least six inches in diameter because anything smaller is usually insufficient.
6. Relay the pipe and refill the ditch with all of that freshly-cleaned gravel.

Tips & Warnings

• The Canadian government's website records numerous applications for French drains under the section labeled Mining Resources.

Who Can Help:

• Find Handyman Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Contractors Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Landscaping Design and Installation Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.