Welcome to PGH French Drains, your trusted partner for premium French drain installation and repair services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. We specialize in providing drainage solutions that protect your home from water damage and ensure a dry, safe environment. With extensive experience and a steadfast commitment to quality, our team employs cutting-edge equipment and techniques to address the unique water management challenges faced by Pittsburgh homeowners. From preventing basement flooding to managing water runoff, our team is dedicated to delivering reliable, long-lasting results for your peace of mind.
Few things are more frustrating than dealing with a wet basement, yet many homeowners have put off doing anything about drainage problems for years. Thankfully, there is an easy solution: install an exterior French drain. Homeowners who are on the fence about whether French drain installation in Pittsburgh is worth the money can read on to find out what they need to know about French drains, how they work, who installs them, and more.
There are two types of French drains: indoor French drains and exterior French drains. The exterior variety is a good first defense against wet basements and soggy lawns, so it’s a good place for homeowners to start. The design is simple: French drains are trenches with perforated pipes in them that are covered with rocks. The trench is angled away from the home to collect excess groundwater and surface water and route it away from the basement. The exit point for the water is at the drain’s lowest point.
No matter where it is, water always seeks the lowest point and drains readily into loose soil and air pockets. French drains provide an easy, accessible path for the water by adding a sunken channel filled with freely draining gravel, which encourages the water to drain out of the surrounding soil. This reduces the static water pressure on basement walls, which helps to prevent leaks and seepage and keeps them dry.
To drain correctly, the trench and pipe must use the force of gravity to remove water from saturated soil and pull it toward an acceptable discharge point. Acceptable discharge points vary by property, but they can include:
On properties that are not located on slopes, sump pumps may be required to move the water away from the house. These pumps can move the water against the force of gravity to storm sewers, dry wells, or existing septic systems.
At PGH French Drains, we specialize in providing a wide range of French drain services to meet the unique needs of Pittsburgh residents. Our expert team is dedicated to delivering top-quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Whether you need interior or exterior French drain services, we have you covered.
Our Services
1. Interior French Drains Service- Our interior French drains service is designed to manage water issues within your home. We install and maintain French drains that effectively prevent basement flooding and water damage.
2. Exterior French Drain- Our exterior French drains service focuses on managing water around the perimeter of your property. We provide
yard drain installation services to create efficient drainage systems and protect your home from water intrusion.
3. Surface Drain Service- Surface drains are crucial for managing water runoff from driveways, patios, and other flat surfaces. Our surface drain service ensures that water is quickly and efficiently directed away from your property.
4. Basement Waterproofing- Our comprehensive basement waterproofing service includes the installation of French drains and other waterproofing solutions to keep your basement dry and free from water damage.
5.
French Drain Repair and Maintenance - Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential for the longevity of your French drain system. Our repair and maintenance services ensure that your drains are always in optimal condition.
Homeowners want to know that they are getting their money’s worth, and there’s nothing wrong with that. A
french ditch drain can be very helpful in tackling drainage problems, but they aren’t always necessary. Here are a few warning signs of drainage issues to look out for that can help homeowners decide whether it’s time to investigate options:
basement flooding during or after periods of heavy rain or snowmelt
Still not sure whether it’s worth the time and money to install a drainage system? The best thing to do is to consult a drainage and basement waterproofing contractor and schedule a professional inspection. The pros know what to look for when it comes to signs and symptoms of improper drainage so it’s likely that seeking professional advice will make the need for drainage clearer.
By installing a French drain Pittsburgh homeowners can reclaim their basements from mold, mildew, and pooling water and ensure that their yards and landscapes are not damaged in the process. French drains aren’t the only drainage solution, but there’s a reason most experts recommend them as a first line of defense against basement water seepage. Here are just a few of the benefits of French drains that help to justify their position:
1. They're Affordable
Exterior French drains are quite affordable when compared to other basement waterproofing techniques. This gives homeowners more money to spend on projects like basement refinishing and landscape improvements after the drain is installed.
2. They're Efficient
For homeowners in Pittsburgh, French drain installation may be all that’s required to rid a basement of moisture and simultaneously tackle pooling water outside. Homeowners can choose where they want the water to drain and can even combine French drain systems with septic systems if needed. The ability to move water away from the home efficiently before it can leak or seep into the basement can reduce the cost of moisture mitigation and prevent the need for foundation repairs.
3. They Also Help The Surrounding Landscape
French drains don’t just keep basements dry. They also prevent landscape damage by routing the water to a predetermined place away from the home and away from areas of the lawn or landscape that would otherwise be damaged by pooling water. This allows families to reclaim their outdoor spaces and turn damp, spongy lawns into gardens or play areas.
4. Quick Installation
When installed by a professional, French drain installation is usually relatively fast. The work occurs outside, not in the home, and contractors with sufficient experience will be able to offer insight into the best drainage points and how to incorporate the drain into the surrounding landscape for the best aesthetic results.
5. Easy Maintenance
French drains can become clogged with sediment over time, but they’re easy to clean. Homeowners can use pressurized water to remove clogs and eject the sediment into the drainage ditch or field or use sewer snakes to dislodge stubborn clogs.
"We tried everything to fix our basement water issues but a year later water was still filling up in the basement. We found Pittsburgh French Drains on Google and gave them a call. They walked us through the process and were very patient with us until we made our decision. They installed an exterior French drain for us and we couldn't be happier. Please call them if you are having water issues!" - Susan Y
"Pittsburgh French Drains installed an exterior French drain at my home to remedy our basement water damage. Not only did they come in with the most aggressively priced quote, they completed the job within 24 hours. I cannot recommend this company enough." - Jane B
Why Hire a Professional?
Although the design of French drains is relatively straightforward, installing them requires some specialized tools and experience. Even particularly handy homeowners should leave French drain installation in Pittsburgh to the pros. Here’s why:
1. Safety Concerns
Before digging a trench, contractors consider the locations of things like water lines, gas lines, and other underground utilities. Most homeowners don’t know how to locate these utility lines for themselves.
Some installations also require the temporary removal of hardscaping structures like sidewalks or porches. This can be dangerous work for the uninitiated. It’s not worth risking personal injuries or damage to property when professional installation is affordable, fast, and painless.
2. Insurance Policies
Companies that offer French drain installation near me carry comprehensive insurance policies that cover all their employees. That means in the unlikely event that someone is hurt on the job or the property is damaged, homeowners won’t be on the line for hospital bills or repair bills.
3. Understanding of Slopes
One of the first things contractors will do is assess the slope leading away from the house. Contractors know how to take proper measurements to ensure that the French drain will be sloped enough to evacuate all the excess water. Most homeowners just don’t have the specialized experience to evaluate existing slopes, determine the best drainage points, and ensure that the trench is dug correctly.
4. Access to Specialized Tools and Equipment
It takes more than just a shovel to dig a French drain. Professional installation contractors have access to everything they need not just to install the drain, but also to ensure that no damage to the surrounding landscape occurs in the process. They can also buy materials like landscaping fabric and gravel in bulk, which helps their clients save money on material costs.
5. Ongoing Maintenance
The same contractors that specialize in installing French drains can also provide ongoing maintenance. Experts recommend having exterior drains inspected at least once every two years. Proactive maintenance is essential for preventing clogs, which can quickly lead to pooling water and foundation damage so homeowners can’t afford to ignore this task.
6. Help with Permits and Codes
Improperly installed French drains can negatively affect not just the property on which they are installed, but also surrounding land. This can cause legal issues for homeowners who choose to go the do-it-yourself route. Professional French drain installers are familiar with Pittsburgh’s building codes and landscaping permits and they know how to design and install systems that will not interfere with neighboring properties or pose a danger to local watersheds.
It’s always best to work with a reputable basement waterproofing and drainage company, not a random independent contractor or a technician who ordinarily specializes in other forms of yard and landscape maintenance. Here’s what sets us apart:
Exterior French drains provide an affordable and effective solution for basement waterproofing and yard drainage. Homeowners should always hire a professional for French drain installation in Pittsburgh to ensure that the job gets done right the first time. Browse our website to learn more about French drain installation or give us a call to request a quote to get the process started.
Our French drains services is your go-to provider for all your French drain needs in Pittsburgh. Whether you need a new installation, repairs, or maintenance, our team is here to help. Protect your home from water damage and ensure its longevity with our expert services and trusted specialists.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get a free quote!
Our Partners: San Antonio decorative concrete near me, Portland yard drainage solutions, Savannah yard drain installation
LET'S CONNECT!
At PGH French Drains, we are your local experts in resolving drainage issues to safeguard your home from water damage. Whether you’re experiencing standing water, foundation concerns, or poor yard drainage, our team provides custom French drain solutions that efficiently manage water flow and prevent long-term problems. With our commitment to quality service and affordable pricing, we ensure that your property stays dry and protected. Don’t let drainage issues worsen—contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward a water-free home!
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