| Tools and Supplies to Install a French Drain Around a House | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shovel | |||
| 2 | Pickaxe | |||
| 3 | Wheelbarrow | |||
| 4 | Trenching Spade | |||
| 5 | Level | |||
| 6 | Tape Measure | |||
| 7 | PVC Pipe Cutter | |||
| 8 | PVC Pipe Glue | |||
| 9 | Landscape Fabric | |||
| 10 | Gravel | |||
| 11 | French Drain Pipe | |||
| 12 | Drainage Fittings | |||
| 13 | Sump Pump (optional) | |||
| 14 | Backfill Tamper | |||
Installing a French drain around your house can help prevent water from seeping into your basement or foundation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you install a French drain:
Step 1: Plan the Drainage Route
The first step is to plan the drainage route. This involves identifying the lowest point around your house where the water tends to accumulate. This is where you'll need to install the French drain. You'll also need to determine the slope of the terrain to ensure that water flows away from your house.
Step 2: Excavate the Trench
Next, you'll need to excavate a trench around the perimeter of your house. The trench should be about 18-24 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide. Make sure the bottom of the trench is level.
Step 3: Add Gravel to the Trench
Once the trench is excavated, add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the trench. The gravel should be about 2-3 inches deep. This will provide a base for the French drain.
Step 4: Install the Perforated Pipe
The next step is to install the perforated pipe. This pipe is designed to allow water to flow into it and be carried away from your house. Place the perforated pipe in the trench on top of the gravel. Make sure the perforations are facing down.
Step 5: Cover the Pipe with More Gravel
After the pipe is in place, cover it with more gravel. The gravel should be about 6-8 inches deep. This will help to filter out any sediment or debris that may be carried into the trench.
Step 6: Cover the Trench with Landscape Fabric
Once the gravel is in place, cover the trench with landscape fabric. This will help to prevent soil and debris from entering the trench and clogging the perforated pipe.
Step 7: Backfill the Trench
Finally, backfill the trench with soil. Make sure to compact the soil as you go to prevent settling. The soil should slope away from your house to ensure proper drainage.
In conclusion, installing a French drain around your house can help prevent water damage to your foundation and basement. By following these steps, you can install a French drain that will effectively carry water away from your house.