French Drains
A gravel trench and pipe that collects water and carries it downhill, away from the house.
For homeowners
Pick how much help you want.
Free step-by-step guides and videos for the most common fixes.
Browse DIY guidesVideo callA 1:1 video call with a drainage expert. Show us the problem, leave with a plan.
Book a 1:1Done for youTell us about the job and we'll send a crew or a trusted local pro.
Get a proAnswer three quick questions and we'll point you to the fix.
Your answer
Your fix, and the right kind of help, shows up here.
Our best guess
A gravel trench and pipe that collects water and carries it downhill, away from the house.
Keep water off the foundation and out of the basement or crawl space.
Soggy lawn, puddles that never leave, water running toward the house.
When there's no downhill, a pump moves the water for you.
Downspout drains, channel drains and pop-up emitters that handle the big storms.
Not sure where the water comes from? We find the source before anyone digs.
Often, yes. Downspout extensions, regrading and many French drains are weekend jobs. Every guide tells you when to stop and call a pro instead.
You show us the problem on video (send photos ahead if you can). We tell you what is causing it and what we would do, and you leave with a plan: DIY steps and materials, or what to ask a contractor for.
The DIY guides and videos are free. Pro work is quoted after someone has seen the job, before anything starts.
Apple Drains, or the local pro we match you with, by phone, text or email about your project.
Tell us about the problem, or talk it through on a call first.