How To Install French Drain In Basement

A French drain is a shallow trench filled with gravel or crushed stone, installed around the perimeter of a basement to collect and redirect groundwater away from the foundation. It can effectively prevent water from seeping into the basement and causing damage to walls, floors, and belongings. Installing a French drain in a basement requires careful planning and proper execution. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Materials you'll need:

Perforated drain pipe
Gravel or crushed stone
Landscape fabric
Concrete mix
Measuring tape
Level
Shovel
Tamper

Step 1: Determine the Location of the Drain

Locate the areas in the basement where water tends to accumulate or where you suspect there may be moisture problems. Mark these areas on the floor using a pencil or chalk. The French drain should be installed along the perimeter of the basement, following these marked areas.

Step 2: Excavate the Trench

Using a shovel, dig a trench around the perimeter of the basement, approximately 12-18 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep. The trench should be sloped slightly towards the sump pump or the point where you want the water to be discharged.

Step 3: Install the Drain Pipe

Place the perforated drain pipe in the center of the trench, ensuring that the perforations face down. The pipe should be level and follow the slope of the trench. Connect multiple sections of pipe together using couplers.

Step 4: Cover the Pipe with Gravel

Fill the trench around the drain pipe with gravel or crushed stone, up to about 2 inches below the top of the trench. Tamp down the gravel to compact it and create a stable base for the drain.

Step 5: Wrap the Gravel with Landscape Fabric

Wrap the gravel with landscape fabric to prevent soil and debris from clogging the drain. Overlap the fabric by at least 12 inches and secure it using stakes or pins.

Step 6: Backfill the Trench

Fill the remaining space in the trench with soil or sand and tamp it down to create a level surface. If desired, you can cover the trench with concrete for a more finished look.

Step 7: Connect to Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump installed in the basement, connect the end of the French drain to the pump's discharge pipe. This will allow the water collected by the drain to be pumped out of the basement.

Maintenance

To ensure the French drain continues to function properly, it's important to perform regular maintenance:

Inspect the drain periodically for any blockages or damage.
Clean the drain by flushing it with water or using a wet/dry vacuum.
Replace the landscape fabric if it becomes torn or clogged.

By following these steps and maintaining the drain properly, you can effectively prevent water from seeping into your basement and keep it dry and protected.