How Much Does French Drain Installation Cost in Sacramento, CA? (2026)

Average Cost

$14,604–$29,538

Materials

$10,920–$22,505

Labor

$763–$1,125

A French drain installation includes trenching a sloped channel, lining it with filter fabric, laying perforated pipe on a gravel bed, backfilling with clean drain rock, and restoring the surface. French drains redirect subsurface water away from foundations, patios, and low-lying yard areas. This estimate reflects Sacramento-area pricing for 2025-2026.

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City

Linear feet of drain

Materials Included

Perforated corrugated pipe (4")2500 linear ft

$2,500–$6,250

Clean drain rock (3/4")200 cu yd

$7,000–$12,000

Non-woven filter fabric2750 linear ft

$1,375–$4,125

Catch basin / pop-up emitter2 each

$30–$90

Pipe fittings, couplings, elbows1 lot

$15–$40

Labor

Drainage installer10h @ $50–$75/hr

$500–$750

Laborer / trenching7.5h @ $35–$50/hr

$263–$375

Contractor Markup25%

0%Avg 30%100%

Materials

$10,920–$22,505

Labor

$763–$1,125

Markup

$2,921–$5,908

Estimated Total Cost

$14,604 – $29,538

$292–$591 per unit

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Project Timeline

Drainage assessment & layout

30-60 minutes

Evaluate water flow patterns, identify problem areas, and mark the drain path with proper slope (1% minimum grade).

Trenching

2-5 hours

Excavate a trench 12-18 inches wide and 18-24 inches deep along the planned route, maintaining consistent downhill slope.

Pipe & gravel installation

2-4 hours

Line the trench with filter fabric, add a 2-inch gravel bed, lay perforated pipe (holes down), and fill with drain rock to within 4 inches of grade.

Surface restoration & testing

1-2 hours

Fold filter fabric over the gravel, backfill with topsoil, restore sod or landscape, install pop-up emitters, and test the system with water.

Materials Breakdown

Material	Qty	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Perforated corrugated pipe (4")	2500	linear ft	$1–$2.5	$2,500–$6,250
Clean drain rock (3/4")	200	cu yd	$35–$60	$7,000–$12,000
Non-woven filter fabric	2750	linear ft	$0.5–$1.5	$1,375–$4,125
Catch basin / pop-up emitter	2	each	$15–$45	$30–$90
Pipe fittings, couplings, elbows	1	lot	$15–$40	$15–$40

French Drain Installation — Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should a French drain be?+

Most residential French drains are 18-24 inches deep. For foundation drainage, the trench bottom should be at or below the footing level. Deeper drains intercept more groundwater but cost more to install.

Will a French drain solve my yard flooding?+

French drains are effective for subsurface water and slow-draining soils. For surface water runoff, you may also need a surface drain or channel drain. A drainage assessment will determine the best solution.

How long does a French drain last?+

With proper filter fabric and clean drain rock, a French drain lasts 20-30+ years. Fabric prevents silt from clogging the gravel and pipe, which is the main cause of premature failure.

Can I install a French drain myself?+

Small, shallow French drains are a feasible DIY project. However, drains near foundations, under hardscape, or requiring utility locates are best handled by a professional to avoid damage and ensure proper slope.