52+ Shed With French Drain

www.shednation.com

Introduction: A Dry Shed is a Happy Shed

A shed sitting on soggy ground is a recipe for disaster. Rot, rust, and ruined tools are just around the corner. Installing a French drain around your shed is a simple but effective way to divert water and keep your shed's foundation dry, prolonging its life and protecting your belongings. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to building a French drain suitable for a shed approximately 52 feet in perimeter. Adjust measurements accordingly for your specific shed size.

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

First, assess the drainage issues around your shed. Where does water tend to pool or flow? This will help determine the optimal placement of your French drain. Gather the following materials:

Gravel (approximately 1-2 cubic yards, depending on trench depth and width)

Drainage pipe (perforated, corrugated pipe, 52+ feet)

Filter fabric (enough to line the entire trench; geotextile fabric is recommended)

Shovel or trenching tool

Wheelbarrow

Level

Measuring tape

Gloves

Safety glasses

Step 2: Digging the Trench

Dig a trench around the perimeter of your shed, approximately 12 inches wide and 18 inches deep. Ensure the trench has a slight slope, about 1 inch per 8-10 feet, away from the shed to allow water to flow downhill. The lowest point of the trench should ideally lead to a drainage area, such as a ditch or a dry well. Use a level to check the slope periodically as you dig.

Step 3: Lining the Trench

Line the entire trench with filter fabric. Make sure the fabric extends beyond the edges of the trench on all sides; this extra fabric will be folded over the gravel later to prevent soil from clogging the drain. Overlap the fabric if necessary to ensure complete coverage.

Step 4: Installing the Drainage Pipe

Place the perforated drainage pipe at the bottom of the trench, ensuring the perforations face downwards to allow groundwater to seep in. Connect sections of pipe as needed to create a continuous run around the shed. If using flexible pipe, make sure it lies flat and doesn't have any kinks or bends that could restrict water flow.

Step 5: Adding Gravel

Cover the drainage pipe with a layer of gravel, approximately 6 inches deep. This layer of gravel provides a pathway for water to reach the pipe. Distribute the gravel evenly along the entire length of the trench.

Step 6: Wrapping the Gravel

Fold the excess filter fabric over the gravel, completely encasing it. This prevents soil from entering the gravel and clogging the drain. Overlap the fabric edges to ensure a tight seal.

Step 7: Backfilling the Trench

Fill the remaining space in the trench with more gravel, leaving approximately 2-3 inches of space from the surface. The top layer of gravel can be covered with topsoil and grass seed or decorative stones, depending on your preference.

Step 8: Testing and Maintenance

After completing the installation, test the drainage by running water near the shed and observing how it flows into the drain. Ensure water is being effectively diverted away from the shed. Regularly inspect the French drain for any signs of clogging or damage. Remove any debris or sediment that may accumulate on the surface. Periodically inspect the outflow point of the drain to ensure it remains clear.

Conclusion: A Protected Foundation

By following these steps, you can create a functional French drain that will protect your shed's foundation from water damage. A well-maintained French drain is a valuable investment that will help extend the life of your shed and keep your stored items safe and dry. Remember to adjust the dimensions and materials to suit the specific requirements of your shed and site conditions.

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