| Tools and Supplies to Calculate the Size of a French Drain | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Measuring tape | |||
| 2 | Shovel | |||
| 3 | Wheelbarrow | |||
| 4 | Gravel rake | |||
| 5 | Trenching shovel | |||
| 6 | Drainage fabric | |||
| 7 | Gravel | |||
| 8 | PVC pipe | |||
| 9 | Pipe cutter | |||
| 10 | Level | |||
French drains are an effective way to redirect excess water away from your property. They are commonly used to prevent soil erosion, flooding, and water damage to buildings. One of the most important aspects of installing a French drain is calculating the size of the drain. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to calculate the size of a French drain.
Step 1: Determine the Drainage Area
The first step in calculating the size of a French drain is to determine the drainage area. This is the area that the French drain will be covering. To determine the drainage area, measure the length and width of the area you want to drain. Multiply the length by the width to get the square footage of the area.
Step 2: Calculate the Depth of the Drain
The next step is to calculate the depth of the drain. The depth of the drain will depend on the amount of water you need to drain and the type of soil you have. In general, the depth of the drain should be at least 6 inches and no more than 24 inches.
Step 3: Determine the Gravel Size
The next step is to determine the size of the gravel that you will use in the French drain. The size of the gravel will depend on the depth of the drain. In general, the gravel should be 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch in size.
Step 4: Calculate the Volume of Gravel Needed
To calculate the volume of gravel needed, multiply the drainage area by the depth of the drain. This will give you the total volume of soil that needs to be removed. Next, multiply the total volume by 1.5 to account for the space that will be taken up by the gravel.
Step 5: Determine the Length of the Drain
The final step is to determine the length of the drain. To do this, divide the volume of gravel needed by the cross-sectional area of the drain. The cross-sectional area of the drain is calculated by multiplying the depth of the drain by the width of the drain.
In conclusion, calculating the size of a French drain is an important step in the installation process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your French drain is the correct size for your drainage needs.