Components of a French drain system

✓ Trench: A trench is dug with a slight slope to ensure gravity can move water. For shorter distances, a shovel can be used, but a trencher is more efficient for longer runs.

✓ Landscape fabric: A water-permeable fabric is laid in the trench to prevent dirt and silt from clogging the gravel and pipe.

✓ Gravel: Crushed stone or gravel is placed in the trench to create a path for water to flow to the pipe.

✓ Perforated pipe: A pipe with holes is laid on top of the gravel. Water enters the pipe from the surrounding gravel and is directed out of the system

How it works

1. Water from saturated soil or surface runoff enters the trench.
2. The landscape fabric allows water to pass through while blocking dirt.
3. The gravel provides a clear path for water to flow to the perforated pipe.
4. The pipe collects the water and uses the slope to guide it downhill.
5. Water exits the system at a lower-elevation discharge point.
This is the best way to eliminate pooling in your yard and redirect water to a more suitable area.