What Are French Drains and How Do They Protect Your Foundation?

In doing research on foundation settlement, homeowners learn that the soil below a home plays a significant part in the diagnosing of foundation issues. Throughout the years, fluctuations in weather and soil composition affect the shifting potential of one's foundation. Soil expands and contracts with temperature, moisture, and other factors over time. Some may feel that little can be done to prevent foundation settlement over time, but there are steps to take to slow the process. One thing a homeowner can alter is the amount of moisture directed toward or settling near their raised or slab foundation.

French drains are very effective in diverting standing and ground water away from a home's foundation. Soils around a foundation that are consistently wet expand, while dry soil contracts. This fluctuation throughout the year can cause a home to shift and settle within the soils, causing uneven flooring, stuck doors and windows, and myriad other problems involving the home. 

A french drainage system is a great way to supplement other foundation repair solutions, especially if drainage is a problem for the property and water has the potential to return and compromise the soils.

To divert water, a perforated flexible drainage pipe is inserted at designated areas under the soil. It is sheathed in a sock-like material to keep dirt and debris from blocking the holes in the pipe. The pipe is then surrounded by aggregate like gravel, that allows water to filter through, down to the pipe. This pipe doesn't necessarily need an inlet or outlet, since the pipe has holes, allowing the water to enter it throughout the length of the pipe. The water, upon soaking into the soil, then travels to the pipe and is diverted, dispersing underneath the ground away from the home's foundation.

Once the pipe/gravel is buried, a narrow grate may be placed above the pipe's location in order to further the effectiveness of water diversion to the pipe location. Gravel may also be placed above ground to aid the process as well. Oftentimes, homeowners integrate their french drain system into their yard landscaping, making it pleasing to the eye.

If you feel your home is experiencing foundation issues, whether drainage is a problem or not, call Saber at 1-800-922-2488 to schedule a free inspection of your foundation.