Using Geotex Membrane in French Drain Systems

Using Geotex Membrane in French Drain Systems

Good drainage is required to ensure groundwater doesn’t build up. As it can cause dampness and rotting to building foundations, basements and homes.

One of the most reliable methods for preventing this is the installation of a French Drain. This technique has been improved and utilised for many, many years.

The old fashioned way of doing this was to fit the perforated drain pipe without protection or backfill. However this results in clogging of the drainage slots/holes, extra maintenance and potential re-build of the entire system.

In more recent times, contractors have improved this key solution, incorporating gravel and non-woven geotextile membrane.

french drain example

A small gravel bedding gets put underneath the pipe and backfill on top.

Then this is wrapped in non-woven geotex. Using a geotex fleece such as 80gsm NW6 or 100gsm NW8 prevents the need for regular maintenance. By only allowing water to pass through, thereby stopping other debris and mud from entering the pipe and blocking the flow of water.

The geotextile membrane also offers protection from debris that could potentially damage the perforated drainage pipe.

For more general information on french drains please see here.