French Drains

French Drain Installation Services
for Erie, PA & Beyond


Andy Yosten Masonry offers professional French drain installation as part of our basement waterproofing and foundation protection services. If you’re dealing with water intrusion, soggy yards, or foundation seepage, a properly designed and installed French drain can resolve those issues before they worsen.

What Is a French Drain?


A French drain (also called a subsurface drainage system) is a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from structures, preventing moisture buildup around foundations, basements, and retaining walls. It’s one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for managing groundwater and surface runoff.

Why Your Property Needs a French Drain


Here are common signs that your property would benefit from a French drain:


  • Water puddling next to your foundation after rain
  • Basement or crawl space leaks or dampness
  • Soggy spots in your yard or lawn
  • Water seeping through cracks in the basement walls
  • Mold or mildew issues in the lower levels of your home


Without proper drainage, water pressure builds up and can damage foundations, walls, and interior finishes.

Our French Drain Installation Process


At Andy Yosten Masonry, we tailor every French drain installation to the specific conditions of your site. Our process generally includes:


1. Site Evaluation & Planning
We inspect grading, soil type, existing drainage patterns, and potential outlets.


2. Trench Excavation
Trenches are dug at the proper grade and slope to ensure effective drainage.


3. Installing Drainage Pipe & Filter Fabric
We use a perforated pipe, wrapped in geotextile filter fabric to keep out silt and sediment.


4. Backfilling with Gravel / Drain Rock
High-quality drainage aggregate is used to facilitate water flow.


5. Outlet Connection / Discharge
The drain is routed to a safe, legal discharge point (storm sewer, dry well, daylight outlet).


6. Surface Restoration
We restore landscaping, pavers, or hardscaping disturbed during installation.

Why Choose Us?


  • Over 25 years of experience
  • Expertise in waterproofing, foundation repair, and masonry
  • Licensed and insured
  • Customized solutions (not one-size-fits-all)
  • Attention to detail in finishing (landscape restoration, clean-up)
  • Locally trusted contractor

Get Started Today — Call for an Estimate


Don’t let water damage erode your home’s foundation. Invest in a professionally installed French drain system today. Feel free to reach out to a member of our team to request an estimate. We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout Erie, PA and the surrounding areas!