1. Average Costs
- National Average: $9,250
- Typical Range: $500–$18,000
- Low-End Projects: $500–$1,000 (small or shallow drains)
- High-End Projects: $10,000–$18,000+ (interior drains or complex setups)
2. Costs by Drain Type
| Type of Drain | Cost per Linear Foot | Average Total Cost |
|-------------------------|--------------------------|------------------------------|
| Interior | $40–$100 | $5,000–$18,000 |
| Exterior | $10–$50 | $500–$10,000 |
| Curtain | $10–$25 | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Yard Trench | $30–$90 | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Deep French Drain | $30–$70 | $2,000–$10,000 |
3. Location-Based Costs
| Location | Cost per Linear Foot |
|-------------------------|--------------------------|
| Yard | $20–$30 |
| Driveway | $45–$55 |
| Garage | $50–$60 |
| Basement | $60–$70 |
| Crawl Space | $25–$35 |
| Patio | $25–$40 |
| Sidewalk | $30–$50 |
| Deck | $35–$45 |
| Retaining Wall | $25–$50 |
| Around the House | $50–$80 |
4. Key Cost Factors
Labor
- Hourly Rate: $50–$100 per hour
- Plumbers may charge more, especially for interior installations or sump pump integration.
Permits
- Cost: $50–$200
- Required for most drainage systems.
Soil Type
- Soft, loamy soil reduces costs, while dense clay or rocky terrain increases excavation labor.
5. Additional Costs
| Additional Component | Average Cost |
|------------------------------|--------------------------|
| Inspection | $100–$300 |
| Sump Pump Installation | $500–$2,000 |
| Landscaping Repair | $100–$200 |
| Retaining Wall Installation | $3,000–$10,000 |
| Irrigation Ditch | $0.50–$1 per sq. ft.|
6. DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
DIY Installation
- Cost: ~$1,000
- Includes PVC pipes, gravel, and basic tools.
- Risks: Improper slope or installation can cause drainage issues or structural damage.
Professional Installation
- Cost: $5,000–$18,000+
- Ensures proper slope, drainage, and building code compliance.
7. Money-Saving Tips
- Reuse Excavated Dirt: Save on new soil by reusing dirt removed during trenching.
- DIY Select Tasks: Handle easier parts of the project, like trench digging, to reduce labor costs.
- Choose Curtain Drains: Opt for shallow curtain drains to save on labor and material costs.
- Bundle Projects: Combine French drain installation with sump pump or landscaping projects for potential discounts.
8. Benefits of French Drains
- Protects Foundation: Prevents water buildup that can damage your home’s foundation.
- Long-Lasting: Properly installed drains last 30–40 years.
- Improves Landscaping: Removes standing water, improving the health of your yard.
French drains are an investment in home protection and drainage efficiency, with customization options to fit various needs and budgets!
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