Just finished installing a drain in my backyard yesterday, and man, it was more work than I thought. Dug the trench first (about 18 inches deep), laid down some gravel, then put in the pipe with holes facing down. Covered it up with landscape fabric to keep dirt out, then more gravel, and finally filled it back up with soil. Seems to be working okay so far, but um...anyone got better tricks or shortcuts? I'm all ears.
"laid down some gravel, then put in the pipe with holes facing down."
Actually, holes facing down isn't always best...depends on your soil type. If you've got heavy clay, holes down can clog quicker. I usually go holes sideways—seems to drain better long-term. Just my two cents!
"I usually go holes sideways—seems to drain better long-term."
Yeah, sideways holes have worked pretty well for me too. My yard's got some serious clay action going on, and the first time I tried holes down, it turned into a muddy disaster in no time. Learned that lesson the hard way! Another thing I've found helpful is wrapping the pipe with landscape fabric before burying it. Keeps out dirt and roots, so less clogging overall. Also, don't skimp on gravel—trust me, more gravel equals fewer headaches later (ask me how I know...). Anyway, drainage projects always seem simple until you're knee-deep in mud wondering where you went wrong. Good luck with yours!
