French Drain Vs. Sump Pump: Which is Better?

Improving your waterproofing system to protect your home from water damage is an effective way to protect your home and improve its value. However, it’s important to choose the right solutions for your home. If you are choosing between a French drain and a sump pump, we can help you find the right solution. Both have the same objective, to remove excess water from your home, but they function differently.

In this article, we will explain French drains and sump pumps in detail and help you decide whether you need a French drain or sump pump to waterproof your basement.

What are French Drains?

French drains, also known as drain tile, foundation drains, or perimeter drains, are installed underground around the perimeter of your foundation. Typically, in this type of drainage system, a perforated pipe is laid in a trench below your foundation, which is then covered by multiple layers of stone or gravel. This way, water finds an alternate path to follow instead of seeping into the basement through foundation cracks or holes. As a result, it prevents flooding and structural damage.

There are two types of French drains to choose from: exterior and interior. These two types of French drains differ according to their position. While an interior French drain is installed inside your basement or crawl space’s perimeter, an exterior drain is positioned around the exterior perimeter of your home’s foundation.

How Do French Drains Work?

French drains have a simple but effective design. When water pools around your home’s foundation after a heavy rainfall or snowmelt, without proper drainage, it will seep into your basement or crawlspace.

After a French drain is installed, when excess water seeps into the gravel, it reaches a hollow pipe and is carried away from your home. French drains have a natural slope that uses gravity to drain water away from your foundation.

Advantages of a French Drain

French drains and sump pumps function differently and have unique advantages. Here are some benefits of installing a French drain.

1. Reliable drainage: French drains operate with the help of gravity, so all you need to do is maintain a proper slope around your home and keep the gutters and downspouts clean for a smooth water flow.
2. Removes hydrostatic pressure: French drains collect groundwater and excess surface water from around your foundation and evacuate it away from your home. This reduces hydrostatic pressure, which can cause bowing walls, cracks, and foundation settlement.
3. Prevents soil erosion: French drains allow moisture to seep out of the soil without disrupting your soil or causing standing water on your lawn or gardens.
4. Long-term solution: French drains can last between 30-40 years when installed properly and maintained regularly.

Does A French Drain Need A Sump Pump?

French drains are designed to drain water towards a sump pit using gravity. As water reaches the pit, a sump pump automatically pumps water out of the house and away from the foundation through a discharge pipe.

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Sump pumps are electrically operated submersible devices that are installed by digging a deep hole, known as a sump pit, in the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace. These powerful, electrically operated pumps automatically turn on when the water level reaches a certain level. Sump pumps then collect excess water and direct it away from your home into the drainage system.

Whenever the water level rises to a certain level within the sump pit, a float switch activates the pump so that water is pumped out through the drainage pipe. Check valves prevent backflow once the pump shuts off.

Sump pumps need electrical power to operate and will stop working when there is a power outage. So, if you live in a flood-prone area, you should install a battery backup sump pump to keep them running no matter the weather.

Advantages of Sump Pumps

1. Flooding prevention: Sump pumps remove excess water from your basement automatically. This means that your home will be protected from flooding due to rainfall, groundwater, or leaks. Sump pumps are powerful enough to evacuate large quantities of water from your home, preventing water damage and expensive repairs.
2. Mold and Mildew Prevention: Standing water, flooding, or groundwater seepage all contribute to mold and mildew growth in your crawl space or basement. Mold and mildew may damage your belongings, cause structural damage, and compromise the air quality of your home. Evacuating water consistently helps to keep your basement and the rest of your home clean and dry long term.
3. Reduces humidity level: Removing moisture from your basement keeps the humidity level in your whole home lower. This improves air quality, helps keep HVAC costs stable, and reduces the growth of mold and mildew throughout your home.
4. Maintains property value: A sump pump keeps your basement dry, making it a clean, usable part of your home. It also prevents you from having to spend money on expensive basement or foundation repairs later on. All of these benefits maintain, or even increase your property value.

French Drain Vs. Sump Pump: Understanding The Main Differences

Both sump pumps and french drains are important to keep your basement dry. However, there are some differences between French drains and the sump pumps, as outlined below:

French Drain	Sump Pump
A French drain prevents surface water accumulation.	A sump pump works effectively to remove water that has already entered your basement.
A French drain uses gravity to redirect surface or groundwater away from your home.	The sump pump activates automatically to remove accumulated water in your basement or crawlspace.
A French drain does not require electricity for its operation.	You have to rely on electricity for its functioning, which can lead to potential failure during power outages.
A French drain is installed underground and around the perimeter of your home.	A sump pump is installed after digging a sump pit inside the lowest portion of your basement or crawlspace.

Can French Drains and Sump Pumps Work Together?

Absolutely! You get the best results when you pair a French drain with a sump pump. When you combine these two solutions, a French drain collects and channels water to the sump pit, and the sump pump evacuates water away from your basement through a discharge pipe.

A French drain can prevent water from entering your basement or crawlspace, while a sump pump will successfully remove excess water that has already entered your basement or crawlspace. When you use both drainage systems together, you get the benefits of integrating both systems.

Which One Is Better For The Basement?

Often, the best waterproofing system depends on the construction of your basement and the source of the water. To determine the best waterproofing solution, you must identify the source of the water infiltration. Inspect your basement and where the water is coming from. If you have a high water table, an exterior French drain might be an effective solution. If you often have water inside the basement or heavy rainfall, you may need interior waterproofing, including a french drain and sump pump.

Your basement space, layout, sloping, and location influence the decision to choose a french drain or sump pump or combine both systems. Have your basement inspected to make sure that all the factors are properly considered before you choose a solution.

Conclusion

If you experience sudden flooding or constant seepage issues, you may need to install a sump pump, french drain, or both to prevent water damage. If you are looking for effective solutions, trust our experts at American Eagle Professional Services Inc. We will inspect your basement thoroughly and provide you with customized water management solutions. Call us today at 1 (410) 263-9682 or visit 605 Main Street, Suite 204, Stevensville, MD 21666 for more information.