Standing water can cause damage to landscaping, muddy lawns, and pose a threat to foundations. French drains and surface drains both work, but in different ways. The most appropriate one will depend on the location of the water and its purpose. This blog highlights key differences between French and surface drains to help you choose the right option.
What Is a French Drain?
French drain is an underground drainage system that is used for collecting and diverting excess water in the soil. It is typically made of a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel and covered with soil or landscaping. Water filters into the gravel and then into the pipe to a proper outlet.
French drains are beneficial if the soil remains damp for an extended period after it rains or if groundwater accumulates around foundations and retaining walls. They can also be used to remove excess water from lawns and garden beds. Most of the system is buried, which allows it to enhance drainage without altering the yard’s appearance.
What Is a Surface Drain?
A surface drain is a system that gathers water that flows over the ground. Usually features a grated inlet, catch basin, or channel with a drainage pipe. Water enters the opening and is carried away to an appropriate outlet.
Surface drains are effective in low areas where rainwater accumulates and around patios, driveways, and walkways. They can help during storms when the runoff accumulates rapidly and must be directed away from the property.
A surface drain is not like a French drain, which gathers water from the surrounding soil, but from above ground.
French Drain vs Surface Drain: Key Differences
The French drain or surface drain decision depends on the type of water each system handles:
- Water collection: A French drain collects water beneath the surface. Surface drains collect surface water and surface runoff.
- Installation: French drains must be dug for gravel and perforated pipe. Surface drains must have properly located inlets and pipes, and proper grading to direct water to the inlets.
- Best use: French drains are appropriate in saturated soils and where moisture is present in the soil for extended periods of time. Surface drains work well for collecting water in low areas, driveways, walkways, and patios.
- Appearance: French drains are typically hidden under the ground. Surface drains are grated or channeled and visible, and can be integrated into the design of the yard.
- Maintenance: French drains should be inspected for sediment and decreased flow. Regular clearing of leaves, dirt, and debris from surface drains may prevent openings from being blocked.
Both are not necessarily ideal for all properties. The type of system you need will depend on the water source and the design of your yard.
Also Read: 7 Signs Your Yard Has a Drainage Problem
When is a French Drain a Good Option
If your grass stays waterlogged after rain, is soft to walk on, or has muddy spots that keep getting worse, you might want to install a French drain. These signs may indicate water is not flowing across the surface but is being retained underground.
A French drain can also be used to collect groundwater that is flowing towards a foundation or along a retaining wall. Proper depth, slope, gravel, and pipe placement are critical. The system also requires an appropriate outlet; otherwise, water will become stagnant or flow to another problem area.
When Is a Surface Drain a Good Choice
When water accumulates in visible low spots or drains to a patio, driveway, or house, a surface drain may be the practical solution. A low area in the lawn can be connected to a catch basin and a well-sloped pipe to collect the runoff. A channel drain might be more appropriate along a paved edge.
When evaluating French drain vs. surface drain, watch your yard during and after the rain. Groundwater flow will go toward surface flow, and if soil remains saturated, an underground solution is required. Other factors include yard slope, soil type, runoff volume, and outlets available.
Can We Use Both Systems?
Yes. A combination of systems may be more effective for some properties, where both surface runoff and groundwater problems exist. Rainwater can pool in a low area and be collected by a surface drain; a French drain can be used to drain moisture from under the surface of the soil.
A professional assessment can help determine the cause and if one system is sufficient. Proper grading and a safe outlet will prevent water from entering another yard area or onto neighboring property.
Key Takeaways
- French drains control excess water in the soil.
- Visible runoff and standing water are collected by surface drains.
- This will depend on the location of the water and the source of the issue.
- Some yards require both systems for various drainage problems.
- Long-term performance is achieved through proper installation, grading, and maintenance.
Summary
The first step in deciding between a French drain and a surface drain is to determine how water moves through your yard. French drains deal with water that is present beneath the surface, while surface drains remove water that is on the surface. The French drain vs surface drain comparison will help you in selecting a solution that is appropriate for your property.
Get the Best Drainage Solutions
Don’t be afraid of standing water and soggy soil that restrict your outdoor space. Call Double Eagle Sprinkler to discuss French drain vs. surface drain solutions and determine which is best for your property.