Have You Checked Your French Drain?

The function of French drains is to capture water near the foundations and divert it away from the building to prevent infiltration through cracks and openings, moisture transfer, or water pressure, also known as interstitial pressure.

A clogged or nonexistent drain can have serious consequences on the well-being of the occupants and the building. Foundations are the basis of a building's stability, so it is essential to ensure they remain dry. Water accumulation causes premature deterioration of the foundation, water infiltration, foundation heaving, as well as the proliferation of bacteria and mold.

Drainage problems are among the most common hidden defects because they are not easily accessible. When purchasing a property, or in case of doubt, the inspection of French drains is highly recommended. This inspection is carried out using a high-definition color camera that allows for checking the condition of the drains, identifying the exact locations of deteriorations, and their nature (development of iron ocher, presence of slopes, stagnant water, roots, inadequate connections, accumulation of deposits, defective check valve, etc.). The expert engineer will then be able to provide the best recommendations for your problem, whether through simple cleaning, a targeted repair, partial or complete replacement of the French drains. However, targeted excavations may be necessary to precisely determine or explain the causes of the anomalies observed during the internal inspection of the drains.