Perimeter drain replacement in Abbotsford

When the old drain tile around your foundation has failed in more than one place, patching it rarely lasts. A full perimeter drain replacement swaps the whole system for modern pipe and puts your basement back on dry footing for decades.

When replacement is the right call

• The camera shows cracked, collapsed or separated tile in several sections
• The original clay or concrete tile is still in the ground on a pre-1990s home
• Roots or silt have filled long runs of pipe and flushing no longer holds
• You are already excavating to waterproof the foundation walls

What the job involves

1. Camera inspection and plan. The existing line is scoped to confirm replacement is needed and to find where it connects to the storm sewer or a sump.
2. Excavation. A trench is dug around the foundation down to the footings. Decks, patios and garden beds in the way are lifted first.
3. New pipe and drain rock. Filter fabric goes in, then clean drain rock, then 4-inch perforated PVC laid with a steady fall toward the outlet, then more rock.
4. Wall protection. The foundation is cleaned, cracks are sealed, and damp-proofing or a dimpled membrane is applied while the wall is exposed.
5. Cleanouts and tie-in. Cleanout access points are added so the line can be flushed later, and the system is connected to the storm connection.
6. Backfill and restore. The trench is backfilled and graded away from the house, and surfaces are restored.

How long it takes

Most single-family homes take several days to a couple of weeks, depending on the size of the house, how much has to be lifted and replaced, and the weather.

Permits

Ask the contractor whether your job needs a permit from the City of Abbotsford. A good contractor will know and will handle it.

What it costs

On a standard Abbotsford home, expect roughly $8,000–$15,000. Bigger homes, deep basements and landscaped yards cost more. The Abbotsford cost guide breaks it down.

Common questions