What is a Footer Drain and What Does It Do?

On location here in Bellbrook at a new construction site and I wanted to talk about a footer drain and what it does.  What’s the biggest worry with a basement? Getting water in it of course.  If it has a properly working drainage system, it will stay dry. Footer drains can vary but what is commonly used is a 4-inch slotted plastic pipe that is installed alongside the footer before the basement walls are backfilled. 

When it rains hard enough to seep deep into the ground is when water can ‘stack’ up against your basement wall if there is no drain in place at the bottom. A lot of older homes were built without a footer drain and they commonly leak today. A slotted drain pipe provides a place for the water to collect and get channeled to a sump pump where it can be pumped out away from the house.  If water is not pushing against the basement wall it won’t come in, it is as simple as that. A dry wall can’t leak!  

The footer drain is the solution. A fabric ‘sock’ or cover should be placed on the drain pipe to keep dirt and debris from clogging it. The pipe is then buried in gravel around the footer and often times another layer of fabric is placed over the gravel to help seal out the dirt as best as possible. Keeping the line clean and free flowing will allow it to do its job. 

If you are considering a new or existing home in Bellbrook, Beavercreek, Kettering or surrounding areas please reach out to me. 

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