The role of the French drain is to capture groundwater before the water level exceeds that of the basement slab. The water is then redirected to the municipal pipe or pumped on the ground depending on the laws in force in your municipality. Several factors affect the operation of the French drain. The type of drain: sandstone, concrete, agricultural drain or pvc drain. The type of soil: sandy, silty, clayey. The quantity of clean stone applied to the drain,  the presence of trees near the foundations which block the drain with their roots or the presence of iron ochre. All these factors can adversely affect the functioning of the drain in the long term. 

​

The only way to check the condition of the drain is to excavate to check all these factors and then proceed with the installation of chimneys which will allow  a camera inspection and cleaning if possible. However, when the drains are too old, inspection is not always possible.

​

Several signs lead us to doubt the proper functioning of a drain. 

​

• Lower walls damp or blackened by mold

• Rot on structural timber in contact with the concrete slab

• Efflorescence (white salts) down foundation walls

• Water rings on the floor or on the slab

​

Unfortunately in most des cas we must proceed  to a replacement.

​

Usually during such a replacement, the installation of a Delta-MS type membrane is recommended. The replacement of French drain and the installation of a Delta Ms membrane gives you peace of mind about possible water infiltration or high humidity in your basement for the coming years.

​

​

​