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French drains make sense in some cases in dealing with exterior yard drainage issues. French drains, however, have a limited life span. They are filtered by gravel that surrounds the French drain.
Mud and sediment can build up in the gravel and then begin to clog the French drain. Once clogged, water builds up and the hydrostatic pressure will find its way into your home if there isn't a backup plan.
Water can build up in the masonry and dissolve elements such as calcium, lime, and other minerals out of your cement, weakening the concrete.
Once blocked, French drains no longer drain properly and water seeps up through cracks and the seams in the floor. Pools of water can form at the low points of the floor.
Water that accumulates around the foundation because of French Drain failure creates pressure on basement walls, which can crack or buckle.
We install French drains where they make sense. We may recommend a French drain and interior waterproofing system as well to ensure that you keep your basement dry all the time and to solve erosion issues from surface water.
If a large amount of water is a problem outside, it may be coming over the top of the foundation.
When A French Drain Is A Good Solution:
- A home with a low crawl space that is having water issues
- When outside landscaping is causing major water problems because neighbors' yards all drain that direction
- Water coming over the top of a foundation wall
- Water causing issues in the garage or patio
