Understanding the flow and possible danger of excess water on your property is crucial in protecting the foundation of critical structures like your home.
A French drain or trench drainage system is an important in-ground channel that redirects surface water away from the foundation of your home. This style of water redistribution is a popular feature in Texas, especially given the volume of rain that falls during storms.
Installing a French drain involves digging a small ditch and laying a pipe along the bottom. The ditch is then filled with rocks or gravel to filter the water that seeps through. That said, as the season’s change and temperatures begin to drop, French drains can be affected by winter thaw and freeze cycles.
These drainage pipes can quickly harden and solidify during sub-freezing temperatures. Understanding how to prevent potential blockages can save you time and money spent on repairing water damage to the foundation of your home after the fact.
The following tips will help you maintain a functional and efficient French drainage system during cold winter months.
Install the French drain below the frost line. First and foremost, when installing a French drain, ensure enough slope and depth are accounted for and measured by a professional. French drains installed below the depth of the base of the perimeter beam of your home assure year-round performance, notably during the colder winter months. The best way to ensure your French drain is installed correctly is to contract a trusted professional to handle your installation. C Greens Landscaping has installed effective draining control systems in homes throughout Dallas, Plano, Highland Park, Frisco and the whole of North DFW for over 30 years.
Clean your Gutters. Cleaning gutters is an important step in maintaining the flow of rainwater exiting the roof. Clean gutters are essential in protecting and preserving the landscape, foundation, walls, and roof of your home.
Avoid channeling gutters directly into the French drain. A French drain is intended to redirect groundwater away from your home and eliminate excess water from the soil. Placing a French drain directly under a gutter will cause blockages created by debris exiting the roof. Again, a professional landscaper designer in Dallas worth their salt will know the proper location to install your French drain.
Install piping at a slope. Installing a drainage pipe, even at a minimal slope, will greatly enhance the continuous flow of water and prevent freezing during low-temperature months.
Monitor any piping above the frost line. Usually, French drains are reasonably low maintenance. That said, If you happen to notice a possible blockage or drop in the flow at the exit point, we encourage you to get in touch with an expert immediately. At CGreens Landscape Management, our professional team specializes in drainage and erosion control, serving the greater Dallas, Texas area. For more information about our landscape services, contact us today.
