In order to prevent water infiltration into the basement, most buildings built in Quebec are equipped with a foundation drain. This provides an effective barrier against groundwater that can cause significant damage to a property.
While the exterior French drain has been the most installed type of foundation drain for years, you should know that there is now an interesting alternative to this system.
In this article, learn more about indoor drainage systems, including how they work, how to install them, and their benefits.
How an Interior Foundation Drain Works
Generally speaking, an interior foundation drain is very similar to an exterior French drain consisting of a perforated pipe covered with stone to prevent impurities from clogging it, but it is located under the existing concrete slab of the foundation rather than on its outer perimeter. There are different models of interior French drains, but all of them work in a very similar way.
The system collects groundwater and runoff that may seep into the basement and routes it to a sump pump, which discharges it out of the basement. This keeps the foundations dry.
Install an Interior French Drain
The installation of an interior French drain is done through the basement of the property. There is no need to excavate soil around the entire perimeter of the building. Instead, make a trench in the concrete slab along the entire length of the foundation walls to place the perforated French drain. This trench must have a slope that will lead the water to a pit where a sump pump will be installed.
Often, a narrow drain system, but of considerable height will be used. This makes it possible to make a smaller opening in the concrete slab, but still drains the water and hydrostatic pressure in a very efficient way.
It is then possible to close everything in order to restore its original appearance to the basement.
The Interior French Drain: A Technology Adapted to Quebec’s Urban Regions
Present on the American market since the 1990s, interior drainage systems are becoming increasingly popular in Quebec. One of the main reasons is that they are well adapted to the needs of many Quebec homeowners.
Interior foundation drains require less space
Since the installation of an interior French drain is done through the basement of the property, there is no need to excavate the soil around the entire perimeter of the building. This is especially appreciated by people who live in urban areas and do not have enough space to accommodate the necessary machinery because neighbouring buildings are too close together.
Not to mention that choosing to install an interior French drain could eliminate the need to dismantle balconies or terraces that make excavation work impossible.
Interior foundation drains can be installed in any season
In winter, since the ground is frozen and covered with snow, it is virtually impossible to install an exterior French drain. However, it is possible to install an interior French drain, regardless of the season.
The Importance of Consulting Experts Before Installing an Interior Foundation Drain
In conclusion, although interior foundation drains are efficient, simpler to install and offer several advantages, it is still best to seek the advice of foundation specialists before prioritizing this type of system.
They will be able to inspect the foundation and determine if it is really the best solution to protect a building’s foundation and basement from water infiltration.
At Groupe Fissure Expert Fondation, our specialists are able to answer all your questions about the health of your foundation and its maintenance. This means that if you are hesitating about the type of foundation drain to install, contact them to get a clearer picture or even get a free quote!
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Laval, Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières and many other cities.