Cost to Install a French Drain
Installing a French drain means excavating a gravel-filled trench, lining it with water-permeable landscape fabric, and placing perforated drainage pipe to collect and redirect subsurface water away from a home or yard. The hard part is planning a discharge location and maintaining a consistent downward slope before excavation begins.
Common reasons homeowners do this job
- Water collecting near the home
- Wet or poorly drained areas of the yard
- A need to redirect subsurface water toward a discharge location
- Worn or damaged drainage components
- An outdoor drainage upgrade
DIY or call a pro?
This is a hard project, so a professional is worth considering when planning the trench route, establishing the slope, or operating a powered trencher feels uncomfortable. Contact a local utility locator service before excavation so underground gas, water, and electrical lines can be identified. Wear protective gloves and sturdy boots, and use appropriate caution around heavy equipment.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I install a French drain myself, or is hiring help a better choice?
- This can be a DIY project if the trench route, discharge location, and slope can be planned accurately and the excavation can be completed safely. Consider professional help if using a laser level or string line to establish the grade, digging the trench, or operating a powered trencher is beyond your comfort level.
- What makes the price of a French drain go up?
- The job size, labor time, and materials needed all affect the price. Haul-away or disposal of old material can add to the work, while a small installation may be affected by a minimum or trip charge.
- What should I check before digging a French drain trench?
- First identify the lowest point in the yard for the discharge location, then verify that the route can maintain a consistent slope away from the foundation. A laser level or string line helps confirm the slope before digging, and underground utility lines should be located before excavation starts.
- Why does a French drain need landscape fabric around the gravel?
- Water-permeable landscape fabric lines the trench and folds over the gravel after the pipe is installed. It helps prevent soil from infiltrating the gravel while allowing water to reach the drainage system.
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