Using French Drains To Create a Healthy Living Environment

French drains

French Drains

One of the greatest concerns for any homeowner is to ensure their living space is safe. While there are many other sources of impurities in the indoor air, the basement is credited with many varieties of pollutants. The problem with these living spaces is their location below the surface making them susceptible to water leakage.

Basement water is a common frustration for homeowners and in fact, it has forced many homeowners to neglect these spaces. Water entry and high moisture levels cause mold growth, which is one of the major indoor air pollutants. By failing to deal conclusively with the water seepage issue, you will also have to grapple with high humidity levels that not only precipitate respiratory problems but also lead to property damage including dry rot and metal rusting.

However, you can now handle basement water through installation of a French drain and in the process, improve the quality of indoor air. If you have noticed an increase in respiratory infections in your family, it is likely that you have mold growth in your basement. While many people try glossing over basement water issues through painting and other temporary measures, it is advisable to talk to a waterproofing contractor who has experience installing French drains.

How a French Drain Helps

A French drain can be installed either externally or internally, but the function it plays is the same. The installation process involves excavation of an outdoor and indoor trench where a perforated PVC pipe is then laid. The pipe should be slanted in such a way that the collected water is driven away quickly. Once this is done, the trench is filled with porous materials such as rocks before the original backfill is returned.

All surface water will find its way into the perforated pipe and driven either to a sump pit for pumping or directly driven away from the property. The principle used here is that water uses the route with least resistance and now that this pipe is perforated and covered in porous materials, surface water will easily flow in to be driven away from your home.

When thinking of home improvement, a French drain might not be on your priority list but looking at the benefits it offers, it should rank up there. French drains not only help protect your home’s foundation against water damage, but they also protect your family by providing a healthy living environment.