We just replaced a block wall foundation that was failing due to small 8″ block, questionable drainage and the freeze thaw cycle. The mason installed a new footer drain which drains to daylight. It is partially back filled in places, but I had a chance to test the drain by drilling a hole in the pipe and sticking a hose in the section of drain farthest from daylight. I let the water run for a 1/2 hour and no water came out the end of the pipe on either side. We are in a dry spell right now but that doesn’t seem right. When I pulled the hose out of the pipe, it was 3/4 full of water. I worry the mason did a poor job with the drain and covered it up before it could be seen. What would you do if this was your house?
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Replies
It's possible that the drain was not pitched correctly but it's equally possible that the dry ground is absorbing all the water before it daylights. I'd run the hose more, maybe even several hours. Also, try sticking the hose in the open end and see if the water runs back out.
Thank you
If this is a French drain, the pipe is perforated and the trench is filled with gravel. When water accumulates it fills the pipe and drains off. Putting a hose in the pipe will just put water in the trench until it fills enough for the pipe to work.
Thank you