Water is an essential part of life, but too much of it can damage your home. To help prevent water damage, drainage systems are installed. Two commonly used varieties include French and trench drains. Whether you are a home or business owner, choosing between the two for your building can be difficult. Here are the pros and cons of each to help find the best option for your property.

French

French drains are specifically installed to transport groundwater safely away from the foundation of your building. They do this through the use of gravel-filled trenches. First used in the late 1800s, they have a long history of reliability and effectiveness. In fact, many people consider them one of the best options since they work with a variety of soil types, including clay. Because they are so simplistic in design, their installation is quick and simple. As such, French drains are impressively affordable and long-lasting. A single system, for example, could last several decades without repair. However, their installation requires a hefty amount of professional excavation work, which can arguably ruin the look of your backyard for a season. 

Trench

A trench drain is designed to collect surface water. As the name implies, it uses a trench topped with a grate to do so. Typically, they are installed across paved areas, such as along the curb or in a parking lot. Because they are above-ground, their installation isn’t as intensive or invasive as a French drain. They are affordable and easy to install and come in a wide variety of materials. However, they are susceptible to temperature changes because they’re constructed above ground.

While both French and trench drains have their pros and cons, call a professional for installation once you’ve made a decision. Stan Young Drainage, servicing northern Kentucky and southwestern Ohio, is a highly trusted team of drainage contractors. Fully licensed and insured, they provide top-quality work in waterproofing and structural repairs. In fact, they always customize each installation project to your specific needs. Learn more about their systems on their website, or call (859) 816-5613 today to speak with a friendly representative.