Having proper drainage is crucial for maintaining a dry and mold-free home. If water accumulates in the basement, it not only poses an inconvenience and eyesore for homeowners, but it can also lead to wood decay and mold growth.

The most effective method to eliminate unwanted standing water is to install French drains using slotted pipes, filter fabric, and gravel. In the past, French drains were installed without these components, causing the drain to eventually become clogged with sand and soil.

By installing French drains correctly, you can eliminate standing water. The recommended approach is to use perforated drainage pipes that feature small openings along the pipe, allowing water to enter or exit. Slotted pipes are superior to pipes with small circular holes since they reduce the amount of fine soil particles that enter the pipe.

Best Types of Gravel for French Drains

The type of gravel you use for French drains is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent clogging. Here are some good types of gravel to consider for French drains:

Pea gravel
Pea gravel is a type of gravel that is often used in landscaping and construction projects due to its rounded, smooth shape and small size. Pea gravel is typically made up of small, polished stones that range in size from 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch in diameter.

Pea gravel is an excellent option for French drains because its small size allows water to flow freely through the drain without the risk of clogging. Its rounded shape and smooth surface also help to prevent the gravel from compacting, which can further aid in preventing clogs.

Additionally, pea gravel is a durable material that can withstand exposure to the elements and heavy use, making it an ideal choice for French drains that are installed in areas where the drain may be subjected to heavy foot traffic, landscaping equipment, or other types of wear and tear.

Washed Rock
Washed rock is a type of gravel that has been cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, or fine particles that could potentially clog the French drain. The washing process typically involves spraying the rock with high-pressure water to remove any debris and sediment, which helps to ensure that the gravel is clean and free of impurities.

Washed rock is an excellent option for French drains because of its ability to provide good drainage and prevent clogs. Since the gravel is clean and free of fine particles, it allows water to flow freely through the spaces between the rocks, which helps to prevent water from backing up and causing damage to the property.

Septic Rock
Septic rock, also known as drainage rock or leach rock, can be a good option for French drains because of its porosity and ability to allow water to flow through it easily. Septic rock is a type of aggregate material that is often used in septic systems to create a drainage bed or leach field. It is typically composed of a mix of different-sized rocks, ranging from small pebbles to larger stones.

When used in French drains, septic rock can provide excellent drainage and prevent clogs by allowing water to flow freely through the spaces between the rocks. The porous nature of the rocks also helps to filter out impurities and prevent soil and other debris from clogging the drain.

steps to installing French drains

1. Dig a trench along the outside of your footing, making it at least 2 feet wide and up to 6 feet deep for basements or as shallow as 2 feet for slab-on-grade homes.
2. Place the pipe on virgin soil while ensuring it is sloped from a higher starting point to a lower ending point to enable gravity to force water out. The grade should also slope away from the home to direct water away from the walls.
3. Cover the pipe with at least 12 inches of washed gravel.
4. Lay filter fabric over the gravel to prevent soil from clogging the pipe.
5. Back-fill the foundation with topsoil up to its original grade height.

Benefits of Installing French Drains

French drains offer a variety of benefits, including:

Effective drainage
French drains are designed to collect and channel excess water away from a property, preventing water from accumulating and causing damage.

Preventing water damage
By redirecting water away from the foundation and basement of a property, French drains help prevent water damage to the structure, including wood rot and mold growth.

Cost-effective
Installing French drains can be a cost-effective way to prevent water damage, as they are relatively easy and inexpensive to install compared to other drainage systems.

Versatility
French drains can be installed in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Long-lasting
When installed correctly with the right materials, French drains can last for decades with minimal maintenance required.

Improved landscaping
French drains can also help improve the overall appearance of a property's landscaping by preventing soil erosion and water damage to plants and trees.

Increased property value
By preventing water damage and improving the appearance of a property's landscaping, French drains can help increase the value of a property.

North Texas French Drain Benefits

French drains can be especially important for properties in North Texas due to the region's climate and geography.

North Texas has a humid subtropical climate, which means that the area experiences hot summers, mild winters, and can experience major thunderstorms and rainfall throughout the year. When there is a high level of precipitation, it can cause water to accumulate and pool around homes and buildings, which can lead to water damage, foundation issues, and other problems.

In addition to thunderstorms and sporadic high-levels rainfall, North Texas also has a soil type that is known for being expansive, meaning that it can shift and move with changes in moisture levels. Sometimes were in a drought and sometimes we have more rain than we can handle. This back-n-forth can cause foundation problems, such as cracks or settling, which can be costly to repair.

French drains can help to prevent water damage and foundation issues by channeling excess water away from the property and reducing the risk of water pooling around the foundation. By diverting water away from the property, French drains can also help to prevent erosion, soil movement, and other types of damage caused by excess water.