- 1). Determine the best location for the trench. The slope of the trench should be inclined at a level no less than 1 foot for every 200 feet, though 1 foot for every 100 feet of linear distance is better, according to Renovation Headquarters.
- 2). Dig a trench 6 inches wide and 2 feet deep to slope away from the foundation of your home or from the area where you wish to divert water. The trench does not need to be in straight line as long as it follows a downward angle of at least 1 foot to every 200 feet
- 3). Tamp down the soil in the trench, removing rocks or tree roots.
- 4). Lay 2 inches of gravel in the bottom of the trench all along its length. Ensure that the layer is even and packed tightly to allow water to filter through efficiently.
- 5). Lay the perforated pipe along the gravel-lined trench. If you encounter areas of thick tree roots, use solid pipe so that the roots won't invade the pipe and clog the drainage flow.
- 6). Cover the pipe with at least 2 inches of gravel all along its length. Pack down with the back of the shovel.
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