Water is one of the most destructive forces to your home’s foundation and yard. That harmless-looking puddle in your backyard can spiral into cracks in your foundation, water-damaged basements, and even costly landscaping repairs without proper drainage. While having a perimeter drain installed is not as exciting as having a patio put in, if you are a homeowner without one, you should be thrilled at the prospect of having one put in because the right system can save you thousands of dollars in future damage.
If we haven’t met before, allow us to introduce ourselves. We are Back 40 Landscaping and our expertise is in retaining walls, hardscaping, and drainage. We also aim to bring education to homeowners in need of reliable yard drainage systems and retaining wall solutions in the Abbotsford area..jpg?width=1000&height=563&name=PVC%20pipe%20in%20perimeter%20drain%20project%20in%20The%20Fraser%20Valley%20by%20Back%2040%20Landscaping%20(2).jpg)
What Is A Perimeter Drain?
Simply put, a perimeter drain is a drainage system placed underground along your home's foundation and leads excess water away from your house to a stormwater drainage system or sewer.
A perimeter drainage system is one of the most effective solutions for properties that face excessive water runoff, wet backyards, or poor drainage. It’s particularly helpful for homeowners who experience basement flooding, pooling water, or damage to their landscaping.
Perimeter Drain Cost
Understanding the drain installation costs for a perimeter drain system can help you plan your project budget. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect for different scenarios.
New Construction $10,000-$20,000
A perimeter drain installed in a new home will cost around $10,000-$20,000.
What does this include?
This price is for a complete drainage system installed in a new home build, with no landscaping work involved.
Existing Homes $15,000-$25,000
A perimeter drain being installed in an existing home will cost around $15,000-$25,000.
What does this include?
This cost is for excavation and installation in an existing home without landscaping.
Existing Home With Landscaping $25,000-$50,000
For homes with existing landscaping or hardscaping, perimeter drain installation costs range from $25,000–$50,000.
What does this include?
This cost accounts for the removal and replacement of hardscape materials, such as patios, walkways, or garden beds, as well as the complete perimeter drain system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perimeter Drains
What is a Complete System for a Perimeter Drain?
Here’s what’s typically included in the cost of installing a complete drainage system.
- Excavation ticket with BC1Call and on-site utility marking
- Excavating soil around services (water, sewer, gas, electrical, cable)
- Digging around the home down to the foundation footer
- Installing a perimeter drain system with inlet holes in the pipe to collect groundwater
- Adding a concrete sump system to collect water and filter debris
- Tying the system into the city’s stormwater drainage, ditch, or another approved outlet
- Rough grading of soil after excavation
- Site cleanup, including road or driveway cleaning
Why Does the Price of a Perimeter Drain Go Up Significantly When You Add Landscaping?
Most homeowners have some form of landscaping or hardscaping around their home’s perimeter. This significantly impacts the cost of drainage installation because excavation requires the removal of walkways, patios, and flower beds.
Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to salvage existing hardscape materials during excavation. Once removed, these materials typically need to be replaced, adding to the drain installation cost.
Tip: If you’re planning to install a perimeter drainage system and want to keep costs down, consider combining it with a garden redesign or updating your landscaping at the same time.
What Can Decrease the Cost of A Perimeter Drainage System?
Certain conditions can help lower the cost of a perimeter drainage system.
- New construction with no landscaping within 15’ of buildings
- A wide-open site that allows for efficient use of excavation and earth-moving equipment
- No concrete driveways, sidewalks, or patios to work around
- Onsite place for extra excavated soil
- Well-draining backfill soil above the drainage system
How Long Does Drainage Installation Take?
The time frame for perimeter drainage installation depends on your property’s size, existing landscaping, and drainage requirements. On average, a full perimeter drainage system installation can take 2–3 weeks, but this varies based on factors like excavation conditions and weather.
Why Are Perimeter Drains Important?
Perimeter drains are incredibly important. They keep your basement and/or crawl space free of damaging moisture. Standing water or improper drainage around your home’s foundation can lead to cracks, leaks, and expensive repairs. A perimeter drainage system prevents these issues by carrying water away from your home, which reduces the risk of structural damage.
How Do I Know if My Property Needs Improved Drainage?
If you’ve experienced issues like water pooling in your backyard, a wet basement, or signs of water damage to your foundation, your property likely needs improved drainage solutions.
A professional assessment can help identify problem areas and recommend the right type of drainage system for your property.
Stop Drainage Problems in The Fraser Valley Before They Start!
Protect your home and yard from water damage with expert drainage solutions from Back 40 Landscaping. Contact us today to see why Abbotsford homeowners trust us to keep their properties dry year-round!