How Much Does It Cost To Have French Drain Installed?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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French drain Installation Prices
Minimum cost


$2,000

Maximum cost


$10,000

What is the average cost to install a French drain?

According to Fixr, the average French drain costs

$4,500

. An exterior drain located fairly close to the surface could cost as little as $1,000, or $25 per linear foot on average. installed under your basement floor could cost $2,000 or more. Expect to pay $60 to $70 per linear foot for installation.

Can I install a French drain myself?

A French drain is a trench filled with a perforated pipe and gravel that allows water to drain naturally from your yard. Depending on the size of your yard and the scale of your drainage issue,

you can purchase the pipes and equipment

to create a French drain yourself.

Do plumbers install French drains?

If installed properly by a qualified plumber, a

French drain can last for a very long time

. In some circumstances, shallow French drains can be easy to install as a DIY project.

How much does a French drain cost UK?

French drain system cost

The average french drains cost per foot is

between £30-£40

. The work required by a contractor/tradesperson is specialist, gruelling, labour-intensive work that is well worth that price.

Why do French drains fail?

Over time, a French drain

may become clogged

. Tiny soil and clay granules slip through the pores of the landscape fabric and gradually build up inside the pipe. Another common cause of French drain clogs is root intrusion from grass, shrubs, and trees.

Which is better sump pump or French drain?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask us is which is better: a sump pump or

French drains

. Both options offer the ability to drain water and have their advantages and disadvantages – if you still can't pick we recommend installing a sump pump. They offer more draining power and are more flexible.

Do French drains need an outlet?


A properly designed French drain system does not require an outlet

. The water will simply soak into the soil as it flows along the perforated pipe. In fact, a French drain doesn't require an inlet on just one end either.

How long will a French drain last?

Generally speaking, a French drain will last

approximately 30 to 40 years

. However, the above-mentioned factors may shorten its life cycle and it must then be replaced by a team of foundation experts.

What is the difference between a French drain and a trench drain?

Aside from what we've listed here, the difference between a French drain and a trench drain is that

a French drain is used for water that is underground while a trench drain diverts excess water from a surface.

Do French drains cause mold?


They can result in mold, odors, and damage to stored personal belongings

. They can affect property value and make sale of a property difficult. In a single word, wet basements are “yucky!” Click Here to Download a PDF Copy of the French Drain Article as Published.

How deep does my French drain need to be?

French drain depth:

About 8 inches to 2 feet deep

should be sufficient for many water-diverting projects, though related systems, such as those built around foundations and sub-ground living spaces, as well as the bases of retaining walls, may be deeper.

What size gravel is best for French drain?

Gravel used for this layer is typically

1/2 inch to 1 inch across —

the larger it is, the better the water flow and less chance of clogs and blockages. For a French drain without a perforated pipe, opt for even larger gravel, such as 1 1/2 inches across.

Can I put a soakaway under my drive?


There aren't any specific regulations controlling soakaways

, and there's no rule that says you must have one. But there is a rule to say that you need planning permission, and when you apply for Planning Permission the planners will want to make sure that you deal with the drainage from the driveway.

Do French drains really work?

How Effective is a French Drain System?

French drain systems are incredibly effective

because, unlike typical surface drains, they collect water over the entire length of the drain as opposed to one dedicated area. The force of gravity helps to guide water along a reliably smooth path to a desired discharge point.

Where should a French drain end?

Your French drain should end where it is

most appropriate to deposit excess sprinkler system water and rain water it carries

. Most often, French drainage systems are installed to carry water towards the front of a house near the sidewalk or out into the road if you are able to cut through the curb.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.