French drains are a great way to manage drainage on your property. It’s important to use the right materials, though—especially the right type of gravel—so that the drains work properly. Here’s a rundown of how French drains function and why choosing the correct gravel can make or break your drainage system.
French Drain Installation Basics
When you want to direct excess groundwater away from an area, French drains can help reroute it with minimal disruption to the rest of your property. They are a great solution if you have:
- Low-lying land where water pools
- A property prone to flooding
- Frequent precipitation
At their most basic level, French drains are comprised of a perforated pipe installed in a sloped trench and surrounded by gravel. Groundwater reaches the trench, is filtered by the gravel, and enters the pipe through the holes. Gravity then moves the water away from your property.
The basic setup of a French drain is straightforward, but the type of gravel you use can make all the difference in how well it works. Getting the gravel right the first time will save you a world of trouble.
Choosing French Drain Gravel
French drain gravel filters out debris so only water reaches the pipe itself. This means the gravel has to be the right size and shape to keep solid matter out but let the water flow easily into the drain. It also has to be larger than the perforations in the pipe so the gravel doesn’t end up clogging the drain.
Round natural stones are typically a good option for French drain gravel. The exact size will depend on the perforations in your pipe, but a 1 1/2″ diameter is a good place to start. Gravel this size and shape is excellent for filtering out unwanted debris and letting groundwater flow into the drainpipe and away from your home.
Working with Drainage Experts
If the scope of installing effective French drains feels daunting, look for local yard drainage contractors in your area. These experts can take stock of the situation, create a plan, and install French drains that meet your needs. They’ll take care of getting the right type of gravel and channeling the water to an appropriate drainage location.
If you need a drainage installation expert in Jacksonville or the surrounding area, call Daniels Landscape & Irrigation, LLC, today. We’re a family-owned company with over 29 years of experience installing drainage systems and protecting Florida properties. We offer convenient weekday and weekend appointments and are always here to provide emergency service if you need us. Daniels Landscape & Irrigation, LLC—Quality & Service You Can Trust!