French Drains & Concrete Drainage Systems

Prioritize the effective drainage of your concrete installations.
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OKLAHOMA CONCRETE

Why Drainage Matters in Oklahoma

While we understand that drainage might not be the most visually appealing aspect of your property’s concrete enhancements, it undeniably holds paramount importance. Insufficient drainage in concrete projects can result in costly damage, including surface flooding and subsurface erosion.

At OKCrete, we approach the task of French drain installation with the utmost diligence, recognizing its significance in preserving the integrity of your concrete work. Our process involves precise measurements of drainage angles, consideration of slopes, and the application of our extensive expertise to determine the optimal water flow direction when your concrete is poured.

Oklahoma gets heavy spring storms, and much of the state sits on clay that barely drains. Water that can’t get away pools on the surface, soaks under slabs and pushes against foundations. The result is flooded garages, heaved patios and cracked concrete, and a French drain gives that water somewhere to go.

remediate surface water

For preventing the buildup of surface water in a specific area of your property, the installation of a French drain stands out as a highly effective solution. This method involves excavating a horizontal trench uphill from the targeted dry area.

Within this trench, a layer of gravel or crushed stone is laid to help channel water away from the area. In areas near trees and shrubs, we use solid pipe for sections that pass through root zones to help prevent clogs.

Keep Garages & Basements dry

French drains represent a highly effective solution for mitigating water-related issues in and around your property, particularly in areas prone to water accumulation such as garages and basements. These drains play a pivotal role in intercepting and redirecting water, acting as a formidable barrier against potential water damage and flooding.


The installation of these drainage systems can also contribute to a healthier and more comfortable living environment by preventing the growth of mold and mildew, which often thrives in damp conditions.

Why a French Drain

The Benefits of a french drain

hidden from view

French drains are hidden from view and can be placed throughout your yard and landscaping, making them an unobtrusive solution to water issues.

easy maintenance

French drains have no moving parts, such as pumps, which means they are very unlikely to break down and need repairs.

Reduces Water Runoff

French drains can make a significant difference in water issues around your foundation and make your yard a much more usable space.
A COMPLETE GUIDE

How a French Drain Works

The perforated pipe in a French drain is designed to allow water to flow freely, while keeping the gravel in place. The stones act as a filter, keeping the tube clear and preventing soil from entering. French drains will move trapped water to a safe space, away from the risk of damage. We wrap the pipe and gravel in filter fabric so clay and silt can’t clog the system. OKCrete will dig the trench so it slopes about one inch every eight feet in the direction you want the water to flow. Once the trench for the French drain is in place, it will divert water to one of the following places:
  • A street
  • The sewer
  • A dry well
  • A drainage ditch
  • A low-lying area of your property

A gravel-filled pit that collects water and lets it soak slowly into the ground, used where there’s no street or ditch to drain to.
OKCRETE CONCRETE SOLUTIONS

Channel Drains, Slope Drainage & Permeable Driveways

Unsure what type of drain is best for you?


In addition to French drains, several other types of drainage systems can be installed to keep the heavy rain/water from causing damage to your property. Our team can help guide you to make the right decision for your unique situation.

concrete drainage

Channel Drain (AKA the Trench Drain)

Channel drains are a common type of driveway drainage system that is used in situations where the driveway slopes down from the street towards the home. This allows for the collects the water flowing down the driveway and helps to ensure that the driveway remains clear and usable.

Channel drains are metal U-shaped channels that are inserted into a trench dug along the driveway. The channel drain is usually completed with a metal driveway drainage grate, preventing debris from blocking the drain and allowing vehicles to drive over it safely.

Concrete Drainage

Slope Drainage System

A slope drainage system is a type of drainage system that takes advantage of an already inclined terrain to easily drain the water away from your house. This type of drainage system is usually used in areas with hilly or sloped terrain, as it can be difficult to install a traditional drainage system in these areas.

On sloped lots we use the terrain itself, grading the yard and setting pipes at strategic points so water runs downhill and away from the house. It’s often the simplest, most reliable fix on hilly property.

CONCRETE DRAINAGE

Downspout & Surface Drainage

Downspout extensions and underground tie-ins carry roof water away from the foundation, often into the same French drain or dry well.
CONCRETE DRAINAGE

Permeable Driveways

Permeable pavers and gravel let water soak through, but OKCrete [doesn’t install pavers or permeable paving]. For concrete driveways, we get the same result with the right slope and a channel drain at the garage, as on our Midtown Tulsa driveway.

Our Clients Love Us

and so will you
We are extremely pleased with OKCrete’s work widening our driveway and extending the back patio!
“Fischer, Dexter and their team were extraordinarily polite, professional and punctual. They went out of their way to make these additions happen within our budget and timeframe. We will absolutely be using them again for other outside additions (pergola, etc.) and highly recommend their team for any concrete needs!”
Emily Lovell
OkCrete did a great job on our concrete project.
“Juan and Zack were very professional and attentive during the entire process. They followed up consistently to ensure we were satisfied with the progress and final results. I’d recommend them for all your concrete needs.”
Andrew Oyler
Okcrete was the best decision I made for my new double driveway.
“From beginning to end, they were professional, artistic, understanding and affordable. Kevin, Nick and their crew went above and beyond to give me the driveway of my dreams, digging out and hauling away an old tree stump, creating beautiful curves, new stairs and a show stopping diamond cut. I would definitely use them again and encourage anyone interested in a new driveway to call them immediately.”
Leslie Morgan
There is a reason why they are the best and why I went with them and for the future!
“When mistakes are made they make sure things are done right. The first pour did not go as planned and basically had to rip it out and replace. Some companies would say that's good enough but not them. They jumped right on it very quickly and replaced it! Wow! Me and my wife are very pleased with the result. I will recommend them to anyone that ask who did my concrete work for my patio expansion.”
Ken Anderson
OKCrete did an amazing job helping us with our addition.
“They are very knowledgeable about their product. They communicated well and showed up on time as planned. Very friendly and professional to work with and most importantly they poured high quality concrete. They have very high integrity as they cleaned up, professional and affordable service.”
Lisa Andrews
The Perfect Combination of Extensive Industry Experience and Accessibility
“The crew was friendly, professional, and knowledgeable regarding all aspects of the build-out. I would not hesitate in any way to recommend them and envision working with them again in the future as my business continues to expand. I believe they have the perfect combination of extensive industry experience and the accessibility of a local business.”
Patri Marconi

French Drain FAQs

How much does a French drain cost?
Most residential French drains cost depending on depth, length, soil and where the water discharges. Every estimate is free and itemized.
Yes. Clay is the main reason many Oklahoma properties need one, and we line the trench with fabric and gravel so the clay can’t clog it.
Yes. We inspect, clear or rebuild failing drains and fix the grading problems that often cause them.
Most residential French drains take [1–3 days].
Built Together

Drainage + Concrete: Why We Design Them Together

Most concrete failures start with water: under a driveway, behind a retaining wall or against a foundation. That’s why we plan drainage with every pour, not after. A new driveway’s slope, the drain in front of a garage and the gravel behind a wall are all designed together, so the concrete and the drainage protect each other.

Related services:

· Driveways
· Retaining Walls
· Patios

Request a Free Drainage Estimate

Without a proper drainage system, your home or business can flood when it rains, causing costly damage. OKCrete plans for every runoff scenario to protect your property and help your concrete last.

· Tulsa (918) 986-7236

· Oklahoma City (405) 406-5677