What supplies do I need for a French drain?
To make your French drain last a long, long time you need to use these following items:
- Clean or washed gravel (not crushed limestone – it becomes cement like)
- Permeable landscape fabric (they kind water passes through)
- Rigid plastic perforated drain pipe (not flexible corrugated pipe – read why not)
What kind of pipe should I use for a French drain?
One of the most common pipe materials used to create a French drain is plastic because of its durability. There are two frequently chosen pipe variations: corrugated and PVC. Both are lightweight, but corrugated pipe can be flexible, while PVC is stronger and more rigid.
Is PVC or corrugated pipe better for a French drain?
While landscapers use “non-rigid corrugated NDS pipes,” we use drainage grade PVC pipe because it is more durable and longer-lasting, especially when buried under heavy materials like soil. The corrugated pipe is cheaper but not nearly as strong.
Is PVC pipe good for French drain?
A French drain can help by redirecting the water and depositing it elsewhere. French drains are typically constructed with black corrugated pipe, but there are arguments that favor using white PVC pipe for the job, as well.
Do I need a trench drain or a French drain?
The Bottom Line. Whenever the issue is water pooling on the ground surface, a trench drain should be installed. If there is no issue of flooding or water pooling, then a French drain system might be a good solution.
What is the alternative to a French drain?
Swales
Swales, also called valleys, are an alternative to French drains that capture and divert rainwater. Swales are shallow ditches that do not contain pipes. You can usually find them along a property’s edge, following the natural grade of the land to direct runoff to ditches or wooded areas.
What is the best French drain pipe?
Best Pipe for a French Drain. Pipes specified to be used on French drains pipes are normally 6-inch diameter perforated PVC SDR-35. If the job or area to be worked is small, you might want to try a four-inch pipe but remember it will all come down to the amount of water being handled.
What is a French drain?
A French drain is basically a ditch lined with rocks or gravel that helps drain water away from an area. It is generally used in gardening or to protect the foundation of a house or other structure from ground and surface water.
What is a French drain pipe?
A French Drain is a pipe that collects and directs water. A wide, perforated pipe placed in the ground collects excess water and drains it away from the affected area. The pipe is covered with gravel or rock so that it’s not visible, and it’s angled downward to make sure drainage is smooth.
What are the types of sewer pipes?
Types of sewer pipes. Firstly, the sewer pipe are divided into two main types: cast-iron and plastic, that is, depending on the material. Cast iron pipes for drainage have been used for a long time and are widely used for this purpose.