Owning a home comes with many challenges. One of the most common challenges – and one that homeowners often find the most frustrating – is dealing with water on the property. Water may pool in the yard, or it may remain around a foundation, weakening it over time. Sometimes, water even floods into the crawlspace or the home itself. Finding the right drainage solutions is essential for protecting your home and maintaining the integrity of your landscape.
Two of the most common solutions that Triad Associates offers for our residential clients include french drains and curtain drains. When comparing a french drain vs. curtain drain, it’s important to understand their distinct functions:
French Drain
Many homeowners are familiar with french drains. These drains typically involve burying a perforated pipe in a trench, surrounded by gravel. The water seeps into the pipe and is carried away – either to an outlet such as another drain or a natural drainage field or to a catch basin.
Curtain Drain
A curtain drain is similar to a french drain. The differences lie in how deep they are buried and in the problems they are designed to solve.
Differences Between French Drain vs. Curtain Drain
At first glance, french drains and curtain drains may seem to be the same. But once you start comparing french drains vs. curtain drains, you can appreciate their differences and why they are better suited for different needs.
Installation Depth
Typically, french drains are installed deeper than curtain drains. French drains tend to be buried a few feet below ground level, while curtain drains are usually built right at ground level or just below it.
Typical Applications
Because of their depth, french drains are usually selected to deal with areas of a property that receive heavy precipitation or that experience groundwater issues. In contrast, curtain drains are usually chosen for properties that experience issues with surface water.
When to Use a French Drain
If your yard seems to always or often be wet, or if you have swampy areas of your yard after a rain, you will most likely benefit from a french drain. These drains are also helpful for preventing flooding or water retention in basements.
When to Use a Curtain Drain
Curtain drains are best for diverting surface water on sloped surfaces. They help to reduce erosion and to protect nutrients in the soil. They also help to control the flow of water that would otherwise flow in undesirable directions.
Hire Triad Associates’ Drainage Experts Today!
If you are experiencing drainage issues on your property, you need an experienced drainage expert to help you design effective solutions. You have too much at stake in your property to risk trial and error. Call the trusted experts at Triad Associates to analyze your property and design long-lasting solutions that will protect your home and your landscape. Whether it is a curtain drain, a french drain, or another solution, we will install an effective system to manage drainage on your property. You’ll enjoy a solid foundation, a dry basement, and a thriving lawn. Contact us today to get started!
