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 West Virginia 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.