Key Takeaways
| Key Points | Summary |
|---|---|
| Cost per Linear Foot | Exterior: $10 – $35, Interior: $40 – $85 |
| Average Total Cost | Exterior: $500 – $8,800, Interior: $4,000 – $17,000 |
| Cost Factors | Pipe, Gravel, Fabric, Trenching, Labor, Sump Pump, Dry Well |
French drains are a versatile and effective solution for managing water drainage issues. Whether you are installing a drain outside your home or inside your basement, it’s important to understand the associated costs to make an informed decision. In this guide, we will provide a detailed cost analysis to help you plan your French drain installation.
$10 – $35 Per Linear Foot (Exterior In Yard)
The cost for installing a French drain outside ranges from $10 to $35 per linear foot. This involves digging a trench, laying the drain pipe, and covering it with gravel.
$40 – $85 Per Linear Foot (Interior Or Basement)
For interior installations, especially in basements, the cost ranges from $40 to $85 per linear foot due to the complexity of working inside a house and the additional materials required.
$500 – $8,800 Average Cost To Install Exterior French Drain
Typically, the total cost to install an exterior French drain can range from $500 to $8,800. The price depends on the length, depth, and complexity of the installation.
$4,000 – $17,000 Average Cost Of Interior Or Basement French Drain
The average cost for installing an interior French drain in a basement spans from $4,000 to $17,000. This cost includes labor, materials, sump pumps, and other necessary components.
French Drain Cost
| Type | Cost per Linear Foot (LF) | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Surface-level French drain in yard | $10 – $30 | $500 – $5,300 |
| Curtain drain / shallow French drain | $10 – $35 | $1,500 – $8,800 |
| Exterior French drain / weeping tile around house (per side of house) | $30 – $90 | $1,200 – $4,500 |
| Interior perimeter French drain for basement | $40 – $85 | $4,000 – $17,000 |
| Interior French drain for crawl space | $20 – $40 | $2,000 – $8,000 |
Average French Drain Installation Cost Per Foot
| Length | Exterior/Yard ($10 – $35 per LF) | Interior/Basement ($40 – $85 per LF) |
|---|---|---|
| 25′ | $250 – $900 | $1,000 – $2,100 |
| 50′ | $500 – $1,800 | $2,000 – $4,300 |
| 100′ | $1,000 – $3,500 | $4,000 – $8,500 |
| 125′ | $1,300 – $4,400 | $5,000 – $10,600 |
| 150′ | $1,500 – $5,300 | $6,000 – $12,800 |
| 175′ | $1,800 – $6,100 | $7,000 – $14,900 |
| 200′ | $2,000 – $7,000 | $8,000 – $17,000 |
| 250′ | $2,500 – $8,800 | $10,000 – $21,300 |
Interior French Drain System Costs
| Type | Average Cost (per linear foot) | Average Installed Cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Crawl space | $20 – $40 | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Basement perimeter | $40 – $85 | $4,000 – $17,000 |
Basement French Drain Cost
| Basement Perimeter | Sump Pumps | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 100′ | 1 | $4,000 – $8,500 |
| 125′ | 2 | $5,000 – $10,600 |
| 150′ | 2 | $6,000 – $12,800 |
| 175′ | 2 | $7,000 – $14,900 |
| 200′ | 2 | $8,000 – $17,000 |
Cost To Install Sump Pump And French Drain
Adding a sump pump to a French drain system can mitigate risks of water damage in basements or crawl spaces. The installation cost of a sump pump ranges from $500 to $1,800, depending on the type and specifications of the pump. When combined with a French drain, this significantly enhances the drainage system’s efficiency.
Crawl Space French Drain Cost
Crawl spaces are prone to moisture issues, and installing a French drain can be a proactive approach to managing water. The cost to install a French drain in a crawl space is between $2,000 and $8,000, depending on the size and specific conditions.
Cost To Install French Drain In Yard
| Length | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| 25′ | $250 – $900 |
| 50′ | $500 – $1,800 |
| 100′ | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| 125′ | $1,300 – $4,400 |
| 150′ | $1,500 – $5,300 |
| 175′ | $1,800 – $6,100 |
| 200′ | $2,000 – $7,000 |
Dry Well Or Vertical French Drain Cost
| Type | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| Gravel / Loose Stone | $50 – $250 |
| Prefabricated Plastic Tank | $200 – $700 |
| Concrete Tank | $500 – $3,000+ |
Exterior Perimeter French Drain Cost
| Type | Average Cost per Foot | Average Installed Cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Surface-level perimeter French drain | $10 – $30 | $1,500 – $7,500 |
| Curtain perimeter drain | $10 – $35 | $1,500 – $8,800 |
| French perimeter / weeping drain tile / deep drain | $30 – $90 | $4,500 – $22,500 |
French Curtain Drain Cost Around House
Installing a French curtain drain around the perimeter of a house typically ranges from $1,500 to $8,800. This is particularly useful for areas with high water tables or slope issues.
Cost Factors To Install A French Drain
| Factor | Average Cost for 100 to 200 Feet |
|---|---|
| Pipe | $100 – $1,000+ |
| Drainage gravel | $100 – $600 |
| Permeable landscape fabric | $40 – $360 |
| Trenching | $500 – $2,400 |
| Installation labor | $700 – $8,000 |
| Sump pump | $500 – $1,800* |
| Dry well | $50 – $3,000+* |
French Drain Cleaning Cost
Maintenance costs for French drains vary depending on their complexity and location. A professional cleaning usually costs between $300 and $500, ensuring the system remains unclogged and effective.
French Drain Pipe Costs
| Pipe Type | Average Cost per Foot |
|---|---|
| Corrugated | $1.00 – $3.00 |
| PVC | $1.20 – $5.00 |
| EZ-drain pipe / prefabricated | $7.00 – $10.00 |
| Hydroblox planks | $10.00 – $20.00 |
French Drain FAQs
What Is A French Drain?
A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock that redirects surface water and groundwater away from an area. It typically includes a perforated pipe that channels water efficiently.
When Do I Need A French Drain?
You need a French drain when you experience frequent standing water, basement flooding, or overly saturated soil. It’s also beneficial in areas with poor drainage or high water tables.
Is A French Drain Worth It?
Yes, a French drain can be a cost-effective solution to preventing water damage and managing excessive moisture, which can save significant repair costs in the long run.
How Deep Should A French Drain Be?
The depth of a French drain usually ranges from 18 inches to 36 inches, but it can vary depending on the drainage needs and landscape.
Do French Drains Need An Outlet And Inlet?
Yes, French drains need an outlet for water to exit safely and an inlet for water to enter the system efficiently.
How Long Do French Drains Last?
Properly installed French drains can last anywhere from 30 to 40 years, depending on maintenance and material quality.
Who Installs French Drains?
Professional landscapers, waterproofing contractors, and specialized drainage companies typically install French drains.
How Long Does It Take To Install A French Drainage System?
Installation time varies but generally spans from a few days to a week, depending on the complexity and extent of the project.
Getting Estimates From French Drain Installers
Questions To Ask
- How much experience do you have with French drain installations?
- Can you provide a detailed quote, including labor and material costs?
- Do you offer any warranties or guarantees?
- What is the estimated timeline for the project?
- Can you provide any references or reviews from past clients?
Understanding the costs and processes associated with installing a French drain system can be invaluable for homeowners facing water drainage issues. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you the clarity needed to make an informed decision.
