How to Install a French Drain in a Sidewalk

Installing a French drain in a sidewalk can help prevent water from pooling and causing damage to the concrete. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Plan the drainage route: Determine the direction of the water flow and the best location for the drain. Mark the path with spray paint or chalk.

2. Dig the trench: Use a trenching shovel to dig a trench along the marked path. The trench should be about 12 inches deep and 6 inches wide.

3. Create a slope: Create a slight slope in the trench by digging deeper on one end than the other. The slope should be about 1 inch for every 8 feet of length.

4. Add gravel: Add a 2-inch layer of gravel to the bottom of the trench. Use a tamper to compact the gravel.

5. Install the drain pipe: Place the perforated drain pipe on top of the gravel. Make sure the holes in the pipe are facing down. Connect the pipe sections together using couplings.

6. Cover the pipe with gravel: Cover the pipe with another 2-inch layer of gravel. Use a tamper to compact the gravel.

7. Add landscape fabric: Lay landscape fabric over the gravel to prevent soil and debris from clogging the drain. Cut the fabric to fit the trench and overlap the edges.

8. Fill the trench: Fill the trench with soil, making sure to leave a slight depression over the drain. The depression will allow water to flow into the drain.

9. Finish the surface: If necessary, add concrete or pavers to the surface of the sidewalk to match the surrounding area.

10. Test the drain: After the concrete has cured, test the drain by pouring water into the depression over the drain. The water should flow smoothly into the drain without pooling on the surface.

By following these steps, you can install a French drain in a sidewalk to prevent water damage and improve the longevity of the concrete.