An exterior foundation drain is utterly important simply because it can avoid serious damage to one of the most vital parts of your home: the foundation. When you leave room for problems in there, every small issue can go in the worst direction and become dramatic.
Having a system like this helps to correctly direct water away from the basement and foundation of the home, avoiding water to build up and eventually leak in undesirable places.
It can be installed when the house is being built or added afterward – when the first signs of water damage start appearing. Read on this complete guide on exterior foundation drains to understand what they really are and when you need one.
What is an Exterior Drain?
An exterior drain is a type of drainage system installed on the outside of the house to prevent water from accumulating and causing damage. They direct water away from the foundation and into a drainage system that carries the water to a safe spot – a storm drain sewer or a dry well.
They are commonly made of a series of perforated pipes buried in the ground around the perimeter of the house.
The pipes are placed in a bed of gravel or stone, which allows water to flow freely through the system, as they are sloped away from the building to ensure that water flows away from the foundation.
Exterior foundation drainage is important for preventing water damage to a building's foundation, which can lead to structural problems and costly repairs. They are particularly important in areas with high rainfall or where the soil has a high clay content.
Do I Need an Exterior Foundation Drain?
Are you unsure if your home needs exterior foundation drainage solutions? Here are 5 signs that your home may be urging for it!
- Water pooling in the yard or around the foundation: if you notice this after a rainfall, it may be a sign that your foundation is not draining properly.
- Cracks in the foundation: cracks in the foundation walls or the floor slab may indicate that water is putting pressure on the foundation and causing it to shift.
- Damp or moldy basement: it can be a sign of excess moisture and poor drainage. When water is coming from outside, it is a sign that an exterior foundation drain is needed.
- Water in the basement after heavy rain: water seeping into your basement after heavy rain could also mean that your foundation is not draining properly.
- Sagging or uneven floors: it may be due to a shifting foundation caused by water damage.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult a professional to determine if an exterior foundation drain system is necessary to prevent further damage to your home's foundation. Don’t take too long to act, avoid turning smaller issues into huge structural problems.
What Is the Best Material for Exterior Foundation Drainage?
The most effective material for exterior foundation drainage is a combination of perforated PVC pipes, gravel, and synthetic cloth (or drainage mat). Take a look!
- Gravel: this is a commonly used material for this job. It is cost-effective and allows water to flow through it and away from the foundation. It is also easy to install and maintain.
- Perforated Pipe: it is made of PVC or corrugated plastic and is designed to allow water to flow into it through the perforations. The pipe is buried in a trench alongside the foundation, and the water is directed away from the house.
- Drainage Mat: our third option is a product made of a synthetic material that provides a barrier between the soil and the foundation. It allows water to drain away from the foundation while also protecting it from moisture damage.
You should choose the option that most suits your soil type, climate, and land slope. Ponder before deciding and ask for a professional evaluation if necessary.
Water damage can be a serious problem. Don’t let your house come to this, call our foundation team to avoid the worst with an exterior foundation drain, or deal with the future consequences with the water damage restoration experts!
