What Is a Curtain Drain?
A curtain drain is a subsurface trench that contains perforated pipe, washed gravel, and filter fabric. Installed uphill from the area you want to protect, it intercepts groundwater and redirects it safely away. This reduces soil saturation, prevents foundation issues, and improves overall drainage on your property.
Benefits of Curtain Drains
- Protects Your Foundation
Curtain drains relieve hydrostatic pressure by capturing groundwater before it seeps into basements or crawl spaces. This helps prevent mold, flooding, and long-term structural issues. - Improves Lawn and Landscape Health
By removing excess moisture from the soil, plants receive the oxygen they need and are less prone to root rot. Lawns become more usable, and mud-heavy areas dry out faster. - Prevents Erosion in Sloped Areas
Properties on hillsides or below neighboring lots often struggle with water flowing downhill. A curtain drain acts as a barrier, redirecting that water before it can wash away soil. - Extends the Life of Driveways and Hardscapes
Standing water leads to cracking, frost heave, and premature surface failure. Redirecting groundwater helps maintain a stable base under driveways, patios, and walkways. - Stops Seasonal Flooding Before It Starts
Instead of reacting to water pooling or saturation, a curtain drain prevents issues from forming, reducing maintenance and long-term repair costs.
Our Curtain Drain Installation Process
- Site Evaluation & Water Pattern Analysis
We walk your property to identify uphill water sources, soil type, elevations, and problem zones, allowing us to design the most effective solution. - Precision Excavation and Trench Layout
Our team digs a trench at the right depth and angle to intercept groundwater while maintaining a consistent grade for proper flow. - Professional Installation of Pipe, Gravel, and Fabric
Perforated pipe is placed on a bed of washed rock and wrapped in filter fabric to prevent clogs. This ensures your system functions effectively for decades. - Backfilling and Surface Restoration
After installation, we restore the ground with soil, gravel, lawn, or landscaping as needed, leaving the area looking clean and natural. - Safe Water Discharge Planning
Whether directing water to daylight, a dry well, a culvert, or a swale, we ensure the system drains legally and efficiently without causing downstream issues.
Why Choose Dig’um Dirtworks
- Local Expertise and Knowledge of PNW Conditions – We design drainage systems specifically for the Olympic Peninsula’s wet climate and varied terrain.
- Reliable, Long-Lasting Materials – We use commercial-grade pipe, washed gravel, and durable filter fabric to ensure reliable performance.
- Tailored Designs for Every Property – Each curtain drain is engineered around your slopes, soil type, structures, and long-term land plans.
- Clear Pricing, Communication, and On-Site Professionalism – We provide clear estimates, honest guidance, and consistent updates throughout the project.
Add-On Drainage Solutions
We can integrate additional systems for comprehensive water management:
- French Drains for surface water and shallow groundwater
- Dry River Beds for controlling runoff and preventing erosion
- Swales & Berms to guide water away from structures
- Downspout Drainage to move roof runoff safely downhill
- Driveway Drainage Systems including channels and culverts
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Curtain Drains
How deep should a curtain drain be installed?
Curtain drains are usually installed between 2–4 feet deep, depending on slope and groundwater conditions. The depth ensures the drain intercepts water before it reaches your foundation, yard, or driveway.
How is a curtain drain different from a French drain?
A French drain is typically placed in low spots to capture surface water. A curtain drain is positioned uphill, intercepting subsurface water before it flows toward your home or landscape. They serve different purposes depending on where the water originates.
How long does installation take?
Most curtain drains are completed in 1–3 days. Larger terrains, rocky soil, or long trenching distances may extend the timeline slightly, but we always work efficiently to minimize disruption.
Will the drain be visible after installation?
No. Curtain drains are completely hidden underground. Once backfilled and restored, the surface looks natural, and you can cover the area with lawn, gravel, plants, or other landscaping.
How long does a curtain drain last?
A properly installed curtain drain can last 20–30+ years. Using high-quality materials, proper slope, washed gravel, and filter fabric ensures longevity—especially important in the wet climate of Clallam County.