- Locate an area in the yard where a French drain can remove the most moisture. This spot should provide a clear path for the trench and a place to end the trench where it will not cause damage from water drainage. Dig the trench on a slight slope to allow for drainage.
- Determine where the French drain will start and stop, and hammer a stake at each end. Place a mark 12 inches up from the ground at the start of the drain. Place a string at this mark and run it to the opposite stake. The line should drop 6 inches every 50 feet for adequate drainage.
- When digging the trench, use the string to determine direction and depth. Place the butt of the tape into the trench hole and place it against the string. For example, if trench is the recommended 6 feet deep, place the string at the 12-inch mark on the stake; the total space between the string and trench floor will be approximately 18 inches. Use this number to determine the total distance of the trench.
- Line the trench with a landscaping fabric, leaving enough fabric on top to totally surround the peat rock. The fabric prevents dirt and sand from mixing with the peat rock. Place enough peat stone into the trench so that when it is covered with sod, the trench will not be visible. Fold the landscaping fabric over the peat stone so it is completely surrounded with fabric. Fold the grass back over the French drain or purchase sod and place it over French drain so that the drain is not visible.
French Drain Location
French Drain Preparation
Determine Trench Depth
Finishing Touches
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