Still got time to set up a French drain in your yard, solving that persistent flooding issue on your lawn
In the face of torrential downpours, many homeowners are seeking effective drainage solutions to prevent flooding in their gardens. One such solution is the installation of a French drain, a method that has proven to be effective in managing excess water.
According to Mark Irving, a building and landscaping expert, the ideal time to install a French drain is during the summer. This is because the soil is easier to dig, and the weight of excavated soil is lighter, making the installation process smoother. However, installing a French drain during the winter is not recommended due to the likelihood of frozen ground.
Jess Thomas, the managing director of Drainage Central, emphasises the importance of proper planning before installation. It is crucial to ensure that the drainage can be properly directed to a suitable outlet such as a dry well, rain garden, street curb, or municipal storm drain. If this is not possible, the installation may be ineffective or cause problems.
Additionally, underground pipe leaks should be addressed before installing a French drain. Repairing these leaks should take priority to prevent further water issues.
Over time, French drains can clog with leaves, sediment, and debris, especially in areas with heavy debris buildup. In such cases, alternative drainage solutions might be preferred.
Sophie King, who joined the team as Gardens Editor in June 2024, is always on the lookout for the latest garden trends. She shares that if you want to cover the drain with grass for a natural aesthetic, it will grow better during the summer.
Summer is, therefore, the ideal time to install a French drain, especially if you want to get ahead for the colder months. However, it is recommended to install a French drain when the weather is dry, during late summer or early winter, to ensure the best possible results.
Sophie, who has a love for gardening and has tried growing various vegetables and flowers, encourages homeowners to consider installing a French drain as a proactive measure against flooding. By doing so, they can enjoy a well-drained garden all year round.
References:
[1] Drainage Central (2023). French Drain Installation: Best Time and Tips. [Online] Available at: https://drainagecentral.co.uk/french-drain-installation-best-time-tips/
[2] King, S. (2024). Growing Hacks for Every Space. [Online] Available at: https://www.gardeningwithsophie.com/growing-hacks-for-every-space/
[3] Irving, M. (2023). French Drain Installation: What You Need to Know. [Online] Available at: https://landscapingwithmark.co.uk/french-drain-installation-what-you-need-to-know/
[4] Thomas, J. (2023). French Drain Installation: A Comprehensive Guide. [Online] Available at: https://drainagecentral.co.uk/french-drain-installation-comprehensive-guide/
[5] King, S. (2023). French Drains: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives. [Online] Available at: https://www.gardeningwithsophie.com/french-drains-pros-cons-and-alternatives/
Moving forward with home improvements, French drains can be a valuable addition to a homeowner's lifestyle, especially for home-and-garden maintenance. During the summer, the soil is easier to handle, making French drain installation more efficient and less labor-intensive. Sophie King, the Gardens Editor, also advises homeowners to consider installing a French drain proactively for a well-drained garden all year round.
