French Drain Cleaning/Unclogging and Replacement

The French drain system functions by extracting groundwater when the water table rises, thereby releasing pressure from the slab, soil, and foundation walls. The drain functions as a safety valve, effectively managing the hydrostatic pressure of the water beneath the structure. The water naturally seeks the most direct path to exit, which in this case is the French drain, rather than entering the basement through cracks or the joint between the slab and the foundation wall.

The useful life of a French drain is approximately 25 to 30 years. However, its effectiveness can be hindered by clogging, which is more likely to occur in certain soil types. In instances where the slope around the building directs water towards the foundation, the French drain serves the primary function of evacuating water from the surface. However, if the drain is overloaded, it may not be able to effectively evacuate a significant volume of water. This excess water can then seep into the subsoil. This phenomenon, driven by surface water, contributes to the accelerated wear and tear of the drain by carrying fine particles along the way. These particles accumulate on the geotextile membrane enveloping the drain, causing rapid clogging.

In most cases, a camera inspection is necessary to determine the problem and assess whether the drain is just clogged and needs to be cleaned or if it needs to be completely replaced. The cleaning process entails meticulously cleaning the interior of the pipes using a high-pressure water jet.