When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, French drains are one of the most effective and time-tested solutions available. But what exactly are they—and how do you know if your property needs one?
What Is a French Drain?
A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock that contains a perforated pipe, designed to redirect water away from your home’s foundation. It works by collecting excess groundwater or surface water and channeling it to a safe discharge point, like a storm drain or dry well.
How Does It Work?
Water naturally follows the path of least resistance. A French drain gives water an easy route to flow away from your property—reducing pressure on your foundation, preventing basement flooding, and keeping crawl spaces dry.
Signs You Might Need a French Drain:
- Water pooling in your yard or near your foundation
- Wet or soggy spots that don’t dry out
- Basement water intrusion or damp crawl spaces
- Cracks forming in your foundation walls
- Mold or mildew smells from below-grade areas
Benefits of Installing a French Drain:
- Protects your foundation from water damage
- Prevents erosion and standing water
- Improves drainage and yard usability
- Supports other waterproofing systems like sump pumps
Let Green Home Solutions of Southern New Hampshire Help
Our team specializes in smart, long-lasting waterproofing solutions, including French drain installations tailored to your property’s needs. Don’t wait until drainage problems lead to costly repairs—[schedule an assessment with us today].