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Houston, TX French Drain Services
Welcome to Houston Drain Pros
Wet basements are common in Houston with the continual humidity and ground moisture. Dealing with a wet basement is frustrating for any homeowner or business property owner. When moisture becomes a perpetual problem, mold and mildew can grow and spread, leading to unpleasant smells and potential health problems. It is better to address basement moisture before it becomes an expensive structural problem. One practical and efficient solution is a French drain. With a drain that is professionally installed, property owners can enjoy greater peace of mind and the benefits of managed ground moisture.
What Are French Drains?
French drains come in two forms. There is an interior drain, which is inside the home. It runs along the perimeter of the basement and includes a trench drain or a lower point where the water collects. From that point, there is usually a pump to expel the collected excess water.
The second type of drain is an exterior one, which is a common first choice in humid areas. The reason why is because it helps prevent excess moisture from entering the basement in the first place. Additionally, it helps prevent problems that excess groundwater can cause, such as pressure on basement walls that can lead to cracks and leaks.
How Do French Drains Function?
French drains are systems of trenches with special pipes. The pipes have perforations in them to allow water to enter and move. Professionals put loose gravel around the pipes to aerate the soil and allow excess moisture to drain into the perforated pipes. The excess water travels to a lower discharge point, which may be in a variety of locations depending on local rules and the type of property.
With an exterior drain, the ditch angles away from the structure on the property. It may flow to a drainage ditch or a dry well if one of these is present on the property. If not, it may flow to a low-lying field or a street. However, the drainage point is different on a property that has a flat surface. When there is no slope, water may drain into a septic system, sump pump, storm sewer or dry well.
Wet basements are common in Houston with the continual humidity and ground moisture. Dealing with a wet basement is frustrating for any homeowner or business property owner. When moisture becomes a perpetual problem, mold and mildew can grow and spread, leading to unpleasant smells and potential health problems. It is better to address basement moisture before it becomes an expensive structural problem. One practical and efficient solution is a French drain. With a drain that is professionally installed, property owners can enjoy greater peace of mind and the benefits of managed ground moisture.
What Are French Drains?
French drains come in two forms. There is an interior drain, which is inside the home. It runs along the perimeter of the basement and includes a trench drain or a lower point where the water collects. From that point, there is usually a pump to expel the collected excess water.
The second type of drain is an exterior one, which is a common first choice in humid areas. The reason why is because it helps prevent excess moisture from entering the basement in the first place. Additionally, it helps prevent problems that excess groundwater can cause, such as pressure on basement walls that can lead to cracks and leaks.
How Do French Drains Function?
French drains are systems of trenches with special pipes. The pipes have perforations in them to allow water to enter and move. Professionals put loose gravel around the pipes to aerate the soil and allow excess moisture to drain into the perforated pipes. The excess water travels to a lower discharge point, which may be in a variety of locations depending on local rules and the type of property.
With an exterior drain, the ditch angles away from the structure on the property. It may flow to a drainage ditch or a dry well if one of these is present on the property. If not, it may flow to a low-lying field or a street. However, the drainage point is different on a property that has a flat surface. When there is no slope, water may drain into a septic system, sump pump, storm sewer or dry well.
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When Does It Make Sense To Install a French Drain?
This type of yard drain system is an excellent choice for sustainability and financial efficiency in many cases. Both interior and exterior French drains can benefit properties when the conditions are right. However, determining the right conditions is a task that is best for a professional to undertake. Professionals know how to measure slope, inspect the property and determine the ideal choice. These are some potential signs that it may be time to install an interior or exterior French drain:
- The basement has a musty smell because of mildew or mold.
- Soil in the yard appears heavily saturated most of the time.
- There is standing water in the yard frequently.
- The basement frequently floods after heavy rainfall.
- Humidity levels are always high in the basement.
- There is visible water seeping into the basement.
- Cracks are visible in the basement.
- Water stains are present on the basement's walls or floor.
- There is no waterproofing system in the basement.
Benefits of a French Drain Installation
When an interior or exterior French drain is the right solution for a property, it yields multiple advantages. While there are other forms of drainage systems, a French drain system has some advantages over others. These are the main benefits.
Affordability
French drain cost is especially affordable compared to other forms of drainage systems. People who want to accomplish other renovation tasks find this advantageous since they have more money to spend on additional projects. Additionally, this type of drain is a good long-term investment since its maintenance costs are minimal.
Efficiency
Since Houston is so humid, it is difficult for property owners to try to use alternate ways to deal with excess groundwater and moisture. French drains have a simple and durable design that moves water away from the property without any complex equipment. Their actions also help reduce damage risks to the home. Adding to the efficiency benefits, many drains can easily be connected to an existing septic system to utilize it. It does not take long to install drains, and owners see them start working quickly.
Enjoyability
Some Houston families are unable to maximize the benefits of their yards. Excess moisture can make the ground too soggy for pets or children and can damage in-ground pools. Also, the excess moisture can attract pests that make spending time outdoors unpleasant. With reduced groundwater and moisture, families can enjoy their outdoor spaces more.
Manageability
Like any other form of drainage system, French drains can become clogged over time. It is easy to remove buildup and sediment with a pressure washer. Owners simply wash away the dirt and debris into the drainage area. If there are stubborn clogs, sewer snakes are helpful for removing them.
Why Hire a Professional for French Drain Installation?
French drains may be simple in design, but planning them is a complex process that requires special skills and knowledge. Also, installation requires special equipment and skills. These are some of the main reasons why it is important to work with a professional.
Knowledge of Slopes
This is one of the most critical reasons. Installing a drain incorrectly because of inaccurate slope measurement can be detrimental. Professionals know how to plan exactly the right angles for drains and choose the right routing techniques or drainage points.
Safety Knowledge
This is another critical point. There are several safety risks involved in drain installation, and professionals know how to mitigate them. For example, there are underground cables, gas lines, water lines and other features that can be seriously damaged without the right safety precautions. Also, some installation projects require complex work, such as patio removal or other tasks. By working with a professional, property owners avoid the risk of property damage or physical injuries.
Maintenance
Since every property is different, it helps to have a professional who understands every feature. Professionals can recommend customized maintenance plans to ensure that drains stay in excellent working order. They conduct inspections and help property owners understand when they need to call for help and what they can do on their own.
Insurance and Compliance
One of the greatest advantages that insurance offers is peace of mind. When professionals install a basement drainage system, they maintain insurance to cover any issues, such as employee injuries or accidental property damage. This gives property owners the assurance that they will not have unexpected expenses. Additionally, professionals understand regulations and codes that must be followed, and they know how to ensure full compliance with every project in Houston.
Technology and Equipment
Buying the right tools and equipment would take a major financial investment, and learning all the right information and skills to professionally install a drain would take a significant time investment. Professionals have access to the latest technologies and have experience in the right techniques for installation and measurement. Also, they can procure high-quality bulk supplies for much less than what independent property owners would pay on a per-project basis.
Why Choose Us?
We know that it is important to choose a reliable company when you want a basement drainage system professionally installed. We have verifiable credentials, an excellent track record and a reputation for quality. These are some benefits of choosing us:
- Fully insured and licensed professionals who are dependable.
- Keeps property owners informed during every phase of the project.
- Has experience in drain maintenance and installation.
- Provides a list of references upon request.
- Can explain options and help customers choose the right one.
- Provides customers with an estimate for free.
- Treats all customers and properties with the utmost respect and professionalism.
The Bottom Line
French drains are excellent for someone who wants to add value to the property, protect the structure and make the yard more enjoyable to use. When French drain installation is not the right choice for a specific customer, our professionals will be honest and communicate this. They may recommend a different form of yard drain. We simply want property owners to be able to protect and enjoy their properties. Our team enjoys helping people find ways to reduce risks for an affordable cost.
We understand that our customers do not want to deal with lengthy projects and try to work around construction teams. Our team works quickly to install French drains without cutting any corners, allowing customers to return to their daily routines as quickly as possible. To learn more about French drain cost or any other concern about yard drains, please contact us. Our company serves commercial and residential property owners in the Houston area.