Q&A for How to Make a Basement French Drain

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Question

Do I need to put any drainage gravel under the pipe?

Community Answer

Absolutely, both above and below in order to support any heavy loads instead of having the pipe support anything (and to keep dirt from migrating into and clogging the system). It also allows for some minimal overflow until the pump can catch up. Make sure your piping (black corrugated drain tile) is set at or slightly below the bottom of the foundation's footer.

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Question

We have a french drainage system in our basement but I want to close off the gap between the wall and floor. We don't have water dripping down the walls so the gap isn't necessary. Can we do this with quick drying cement without hurting the drain?

Andy Orr

Community Answer

I could not possibly recommend doing that unless you wanted to render your drain useless. Where will the water run to if it's blocked?

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Question

Can I frame a wall leaving the space between the wall and the floor open without blocking it at all?

Community Answer

Are you refering to a "floating wall"? If a basement, (any) wall is not going to be load bearing, it can "float" top or bottom of wall (usually bottom) with large spikes into floor material. These floats are used for expansion and contraction of the structure so the walls wont bind and crack concrete, sheetrock, etc.

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Question

How deep does a French drain need to be?

Community Answer

It depends on your foundation. It has to be beneath the level of the footer. Most guides will say 18" to 24" to the bottom of the gravel layer. lf you are unsure, consult your local foundation experts or file a permit with your county before starting the work and the inspector will ensure the work is completed to code.

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Question

Should I allow water to sit in the bottom of my basement French drain?

Community Answer

If water is sitting in the bottom of the French drain, then the slope is incorrect and the drain is not installed properly. The sitting water will stagnate and stink, cause moisture problems and eventually lead to a remediation effort. Best to tackle that as soon as possible.

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