Fort Collins French Drain Contractors

Stop Landscape Erosion, Pooling, and Indoor Flooding

Persistent pooling of water and erosion in your yard and other signs of poor drainage are indicators that you may need a French drain installed. These drains help to channel water away from your landscape and keep it dry. By preventing soil erosion and water pooling, a French drain can protect the overall health of your lawn and landscaping, reducing water-related issues.

Foundation Walls Wet or Have Mildew Growth

If you notice dampness or mildew growth on your foundation walls, it is a warning sign that your basement may be at risk. Installing a French drain can help manage excess water, directing it away from your home’s foundation. This ensures that your basement remains dry and prevents structural damage caused by water infiltration.

Grading Problems with Your Yard

Grading issues in your yard may cause water runoff to flow towards your home, rather than away from it. A French drain can solve these issues by providing a channel for water to flow through and away from your property. This solution protects your home, basement, and landscaping from potential water damage.

French Drain Benefits

The Process of Constructing a French Drain is Best Left to a Landscaping Contractor

Carry Water Away from Your Foundation and Neighboring Properties

Fort Collins homeowners derive great value from French drains. These drains keep water away from your home’s foundation and adjacent properties. They do this by collecting water away from your home – generally where it is pooling – and safely channeling the water away where it can drain without impacting any property or landscaping features. By doing so, they protect the structural integrity of buildings and prevent potential disputes with neighbors.

Prevent Erosion from Running Water

Controlling water flow is crucial to avoid soil erosion. No one wants to deal with gigantic ruts or piles of soil in their yard as a result of runoff from storms. French drains manage this efficiently.

Low Maintenance Drainage Solution Once Installed

Once installed, French drains require minimal upkeep while providing reliable water control. They rarely need repair.  You’ll want to periodically examine your French Drain entry and exit points to make sure there is no visible debris that could cause drain clogs and prevent proper drainage.  Homeowners can usually enjoy a long-lasting drainage solution without frequent maintenance or adjustments.

The exception is that shifting soils or encroachment of the drain pipe by tree roots can sometimes necessitate a French Drain Repair or replacement.

How A Fort Collins Contractor Installs French Drains

French Drains are Backbreaking Work – Digging the Trench Comes with Its Own Set of Problems. You’re Served Hiring a Skilled Landscaping Contractor with French Drain Experience as Opposed to going the DIY Route.

Ensure Proper Slope and Grade Yard if Needed

One of the first tasks is to assess the slope and grading of your yard. Proper slope ensures water flows away from your property, preventing potential damage. Generally 1 inch of drop for every ten feet of lateral space is a good rule of thumb.

Too steep a grade and you’ll be dealing with fast moving water that may become problematic. Too shallow of a grade can result in standing water that can contribute to erosion as well as serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. A contractor may need to regrade portions of your yard if the current slope is inadequate.

Dig a Trench for the French Drain

Next, the contractor digs a trench in the desired location for the French drain. The trench should follow the natural slope of the yard for optimal drainage and potential rock obstacles should be removed to create a smooth path for water flow. The trench will typically be anywhere from 1.5 to 2 feet deep.

A French Drain Trench is Typically 18-24″ Deep and Must be Sloped to Allow Proper Drainage

Add Gravel to the Trench

Once the trench is dug, the contractor adds a layer of evenly spread gravel on the bottom of the trench. This creates a stable base for the perforated pipe and encourages water to drain easily through the French drain system.

Install Perforated Pipe Wrapped in Drain Sleeve

A key component of the French drain is the perforated pipe. The contractor installs this pipe wrapped in a drain sleeve, which acts as a filtration system to keep debris from clogging the pipe.

Cover Pipe with Pea Gravel

After the perforated pipe is installed, the contractor covers it with a layer of pea gravel to promote effective drainage and protect the pipe from external pressure.

A Buried French Drain Along the Foundation of a Residential House

Replace Dirt in Trench

Finally, the contractor fills the remaining trench space with soil. There will be excess fill that is left over after the installation. This excess dirt will either be used for grading purposes or it will have to be hauled away and safely disposed of.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does it Cost to Install a French Drain in Fort Collins?

The cost of installing a French drain in Northern Colorado can vary based on factors such as the size and depth of the drain, as well as the materials used. It is important to get a quote from a professional before committing to a project. The average cost nationally is around $5K, but it will vary quite a bit depending primarily on the length of your french drain.

Are Their Local Regulations for French Drain Installs in Colorado?

There may be local regulations for French drain installations in Colorado. Before starting any project, it is vital to research and comply with your city’s guidelines. This may include acquiring permits or adhering to specific standards for design and construction.

How Much Maintenance Does a French Drain Require?

French drains require just a little bit of periodic maintenance to ensure they function properly. This typically involves checking for and clearing any debris or clogs in the drain. Routine cleaning of sinks and tub drains can help prevent build-up and reduce the risk of clogs. It’s also essential to inspect the drainage system around your home, especially in areas such as the crawlspace, to ensure there are no issues with water accumulation or damage.

What is the Proper Depth of a French Drain?

The depth of a French drain depends on factors like soil type and the water table in your area. Typically, a French drain is installed at a depth of 18 to 24 inches below the ground surface.

What Materials are Required for French Drain Installation?

Key materials for a French drain installation include perforated pipe, gravel, landscape fabric, and sometimes a sump pump. The perforated pipe collects excess water, while the gravel and landscape fabric help prevent clogs and support efficient drainage. In some cases, a sump pump may be needed to direct water away from your property.