How to Install French Drain
Learn how to install french drain with our detailed step-by-step guide. Follow our easy instructions to get it done right.
Your Progress
0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Plan Drain Route
Step 1: Plan Drain Route
Determine path from wet area to drainage outlet (downhill, at least 1% slope).
Drainage Planning Guide
Book on designing yard drainage systems
2 Step 2: Dig Trench Along Route
Step 2: Dig Trench Along Route
Dig trench 18-24 inches deep, 6 inches wide, sloping 1 inch per 10 feet minimum.
Trenching Shovel
Narrow spade for digging drainage trench
Trencher Rental
Walk-behind trencher for long drain runs (per day)
3 Step 3: Line Trench with Fabric
Step 3: Line Trench with Fabric
Lay landscape fabric in trench to prevent soil from clogging gravel and pipe.
Drainage Fabric
Geotextile fabric for French drain (3x50 feet)
4 Step 4: Add Gravel and Install Pipe
Step 4: Add Gravel and Install Pipe
Add 2 inches gravel, lay perforated pipe (holes down), add more gravel around pipe.
Perforated Drain Pipe
4-inch perforated pipe for French drain (10 feet)
Drainage Gravel
Washed stone for surrounding drain pipe (per ton)
5 Step 5: Wrap Fabric Over Gravel
Step 5: Wrap Fabric Over Gravel
Fold landscape fabric over gravel to completely wrap the drain system.
6 Step 6: Cover with Soil or Rock
Step 6: Cover with Soil or Rock
Fill trench with topsoil and seed, or decorative rock if drain is visible.
River Rock
Decorative stone for covering French drain (per bag)