Groundwater and surface water in unwanted locations can be the cause of severe damage. There are various different methods that can be used to redirect this water away from an area. One of the most popular and cost effective solutions is a French drain installation. It consists of a trench that is covered with rocks or gravel.
There are several primary uses for this type of system. One important application is the prevention of water penetrating and damaging the foundations of a building. In many other cases, such systems are used to distribute water, typically from a septic tank sewage treatment system. They are also used to lessen water pressure behind retaining walls.
These systems are named after Henry French, who first described their many uses and cost effectiveness early during the past century. He did extensive research in various methods and published detailed instructions on the construction of various types of drainage systems. Over the years the construction method has by and large remained unchanged.
Many smaller water related problems can easily be solved by building such a system. It is very important, however, never to dig trenches unless the exact location of all utility lines are known and marked. Indiscriminate digging can cause considerable damage and even injuries to people. In such cases the person responsible for the damage can be held liable and even be charged with civil and criminal offences.
It is probably sensible to stake out the extent of the trench before digging starts. Digging could be done manually, but the rental of mechanical diggers is relatively cost effective. Experts generally agree that it is best to cause the trench to be as wide as possible. The trench should feature a gentle fall away from the problem area. This will help improve the effective dispersal of water.
The trench should next be filled with gravel and the drainage pipe needs to be fitted. It is deemed best to start by placing clean gravel or rocks at the bottom of the trench. A perforated drainage pipe is then placed on top, in the middle of the trench. This pipe should be non flexible. Lastly, the trench is filled up with the remainder of the gravel.
A French drain installation can solve many water related problems. Standing water in a garden for example, can be banished in this way. Many people do not feel confident enough to tackle projects such as these by themselves. There are many contractors that will be happy to do it. The cost could easily be offset against the potential damage that can be suffered from weakened foundations. Read more about: french drain installation
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