Traditional French drains use gravel and perforated pipes to collect water and are covered with dirt and vegetation. Essentially, a French drain is a trench with pipes and gravel designed to divert water from a low point to another area.
Redirect Water
When it rains heavily, most of the water flows down the pipe and exits the sewer in a better place. The rest of the water will drain through the holes in the perforated pipe and penetrate into the ground for the entire length of the French drain. Thus, the only time a French drain fills with water is when there is enough water to stick to the gravel surface and be heavy enough to fill the voids and subsequently force its way into the pipe.
To work properly, a French drain must have the proper slope and opening point on the ground, in a drainpipe, or in some other place where water can run off. Properly designed French drains are well suited for diverting water from pipe to pipe branch; however, they are not very effective at dehydrating poorly drained soils. French drains share the same strength as trench drains because the French type must handle groundwater that is subject to hydrostatic pressure (water pressure is due to gravity).
The surface around the trench drain must be clean and free of any obstructions so that water can flow freely through the grate. The water is then diverted from solid pipes to the home or property.
Get In Touch
Waterproofing jobs can be done by yourself in some cases, but if you’d like help from a contractor, Almand Bros should be your one-stop destination. We have been delivering high-quality waterproofing projects in New Jersey since 1985.
Our services include concrete and masonry installation and repair, custom stonework, basement waterproofing, grading and watershed, and snow removal services. You can call us at (856) 310-1390 to get a free estimate. You can also fill our online contact form to get in touch.