Question 1

How much does it cost to replace a French drain?

Accepted Answer

The cost varies depending on the perimeter length, property accessibility, excavation depth, and the foundation's condition. For a standard home on the South Shore, you can generally expect a cost between $8,000 and $18,000. A free quote after an inspection will give you the exact figure, with no surprises.

Question 2

What is the lifespan of a French drain?

Accepted Answer

On average, between 30 and 40 years. Drains installed before the 1990s have often exceeded their useful life, especially if they are made of clay, galvanized steel, or lack a geotextile membrane.

Question 3

How long does the work take?

Accepted Answer

For a standard single-family home: 2 to 4 business days. This includes excavation, drain installation, backfilling, and finishing. We work in sections to never leave your foundation exposed overnight.

Question 4

Can I stay at home during the work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in the vast majority of cases. Water, electricity, and access to your home are maintained. Only the landscaping is temporarily disturbed.

Question 5

What is hydrostatic pressure?

Accepted Answer

It's the force exerted by groundwater against your foundation. When the French drain is clogged or non-existent, this pressure forces water through cracks, joints, and even the pores of the concrete, causing leaks and efflorescence.

Question 6

Why is the geotextile membrane essential?

Accepted Answer

The geotextile (a non-woven fabric) wraps around the drain and prevents fine particles of sand and clay from clogging the perforations. Without a geotextile, a new drain can lose its effectiveness in less than 5 years.

Question 7

What is 3/4" clear stone?

Accepted Answer

It's a calibrated, dust-free crushed stone that surrounds the drain. It allows water to flow freely towards the drain and resists long-term compaction. It is essential for effective drainage.

Question 8

What is the frost line?

Accepted Answer

It's the maximum depth at which the ground freezes in winter, about 1.2 to 1.5 m in Quebec. The drain must be installed below this line to prevent damage from frost heave.

Question 9

Do you work in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, until the frost line makes excavation impossible. In an emergency (water in the basement), we are available year-round. For planned projects, the ideal period is from spring to late fall.

Question 10

Do you offer a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a 5-year written warranty on the installation, in addition to the manufacturer's warranties on materials. All our work complies with RBQ requirements.

Question 11

Is drain replacement covered by my insurance?

Accepted Answer

Generally not. Insurance usually covers the damage caused by a water leak, but not the replacement of the drain itself. Preventive action is almost always less expensive than filing a claim.

Question 12

Do you work on apartment or commercial buildings?

Accepted Answer

Our specialty is single-family homes and small multi-unit residential buildings (up to 6 units). For larger projects, please contact us, and we will evaluate on a case-by-case basis.

Frequently

READY TO SOLVE YOUR DRAIN PROBLEM ONCE AND FOR ALL?