What is a French drain and do you need one?

french drain
(Image credit: Getty)

Just what is a French drain? While this might well be something you have heard of, when looking at various drainage systems, do you actually know what it is and how it could benefit you?

Here, we will be explaining what French drains are, why and where they are useful and how to construct one — it is a surprisingly simple DIY job yet can have a significant effect on your outdoor spaces. 

Natasha Brinsmead

Natasha is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Associate Content Editor and has been a member of the team for over two decades. An experienced journalist and renovation expert, she has written for a number of homes titles. Over the years Natasha has renovated and carried out a side extension to a Victorian terrace. She is currently living in the rural Edwardian cottage she renovated and extended on a largely DIY basis, living on site for the duration of the project. She is now looking for her next project — something which is proving far harder than she thought it would be.