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French Drain System: How It Works, Installation, Costs

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Water near your foundation shows a drainage problem. If it is not fixed, it can lead to basement leaks, foundation damage, or standing water in the yard. A French drain system collects this water through a trench filled with gravel and sometimes a perforated pipe. The system directs water to a safe discharge point, reducing the risk of damage to your home and yard.

How Does a French Drain System Work?

A French drain works by creating a pathway for water to move away from your home. Here’s how the system is put together, step by step:

  1. Digging the trench: We dig a trench where water is building up, usually along the outside of the home.
  2. Adding gravel and pipe: We place gravel, a drain pipe, or both in the trench. This setup helps collect water from the soil.
  3. Redirecting water: The system leads water to a lower area. Gravity moves it away from the home.
  4. Optional cover: Some homeowners want the trench left open with gravel. Others ask us to cover it with soil and sod. Both options work well.

Pro Tip: If you cover the French drain with sod, you can mow right over it. It will blend into your yard.

How Much Does a French Drain System Cost?

The cost depends on your yard and what we find while digging. On average:

  • $25 to $35 per foot for most homes
  • Up to $45 per foot if we hit rock or need to go around trees, roots, or other obstacles

Other cost factors are trench depth, total length, and if we cover the system with grass.

Need expert help with a French Drain System? Contact KC Pier for a free consultation.

Where We Install French Drains

Most Common Areas Around the Home

We often install French drains on one or two sides of a home. In some cases, we go around the full perimeter. We place the system where water collects the most.

If needed, we add other waterproofing solutions inside or outside the basement. The French drain redirects water. The added waterproofing blocks any leftover moisture from getting inside.

Why Choose a French Drain?

  • Protects your foundation: Keeps water away from basement walls
  • Stops standing water: Helps fix soggy yards or water pooling
  • Works underground: Low maintenance once installed
  • Clean look: Covered drains are nearly invisible
  • Good value: Reliable and affordable water control

Key Takeaway: A French drain system is one of the best ways to fix water problems in your yard without digging up the whole space.

Why Homeowners Trust KC Pier

At KC Pier, we install French drain systems that work and look good. We keep your yard neat, and we always clean up when the job is done.

We can build open or covered drains. We also offer extra waterproofing inside the basement if needed. That gives your home full protection from water, both outside and in.

In Summary

A French drain system is a smart, low-cost way to move water away from your home. It keeps your basement dry and your yard free from standing water. We install it cleanly and quickly, with options to keep your yard looking great.

Contact KC Pier today to get a free consultation for your French drain system needs.

Eric Scheele

Eric Scheele

Owner & CEO

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