What is the Best Time to Install a French Drain in St. Louis?

It’s a bit tough to answer this question without seeing your individual situation, but there are a couple of things you should consider when determining the best time to install a French Drain in St. Louis, Missouri.

Appearance of Surface Water

You may need to consider installing a French drain when you can see water flowing up through your paved surface. This will allow a paving contractor to survey all affected areas and adequately determine which areas require a French Drain and which areas don’t.

Cool nights and warm days will bring water up through the cracks as the sun heats the surface. The amount of water that comes to the surface is a good indicator of how serious the need is for the French Drain.

If the water evaporates quickly in the sun and there is no other cracking on the pavement, it’s probably just minor surface water that worked its way into the crack. If the surface water persists through the day or appears every day there is a greater possibility a French Drain is required.

Consider the Temperature

It’s also important to ensure the temperature is above 40 degrees at night when installing a French Drain if possible.

It’s important that the water trapped under the pavement remain unfrozen so that it will flow into the French drain and establish the proper flow. More importantly, it allows a paving contractor to inspect the sub-grade and repair it as needed. If the sub-grade is frozen it may give the false impression that the ground is solid, when it really isn’t.

It is also necessary for the temperature to be above 40 degrees so that any necessary surface asphalt or concrete repairs can be made as permanent repairs after the French Drain is installed.

Certainly in some cases a French Drain can be installed in less than ideal circumstances as an emergency, but ultimately the repair to the surface will need to take place when the overnight temperature is above 40 degrees to ensure the best possible finish.

Need to Install a French Drain in St. Louis?

If you have further questions about the best time to install a French Drain in St. Louis, let us know. We’re happy to help out.

Once you’re ready to get to work at your commercial property, take a look at our French Drain Pipe Installation services and get in touch with our team to discuss your specific project.