How to Install Landscape Drain Tile

Make a basic pencil sketch of your yard and identify the areas where puddles remain for at least an hour after rainfall. Insert a wood stake in the ground at the center of these areas.

Look at the location of the problem areas and draw a path for a drainage channel. The channel should be as direct as possible and run through each area and end at a street gutter or designated storm water runoff ditch. Use flour or ropes to mark out the course for water to drain.

(see ref 1)

Use a shovel to unearth a channel 24 inches deep and 10 inches wide. Dig the walls on a curve so the channel is wider at the top.

Place geotextile fabric over the narrow bottom. Dump four inches of gravel on top of the fabric and spread it evenly with the shovel.

Set the drain tile, or corrugated drain tubing, on top of the gravel. If there are only holes on one side of the tile, position it so the holes face the bottom.

Pour gravel over the tile until it is six inches from ground level. Lay another strip of geotextile fabric over the gravel to block debris.

Mix equal parts soil and compost and fill the remaining hole. Spread grass seed over the soil and cover it with 1/2 inch of straw so it doesn't blow away. Grass will prevent the soil from eroding to protect lawn equipment from exposed gravel, and blend the drainage system with the rest of your yard.