Drainage System Installation Cost Per Linear Foot Explained

Installing a drainage system is one of the most important investments homeowners and property developers can make to protect foundations, landscaping, and structural integrity. Whether you are dealing with pooling water in your yard, basement moisture issues, or improper runoff around your foundation, understanding drainage system installation cost per linear foot is essential for planning your budget accurately.

In this guide, we will break down the typical costs per linear foot, the factors that influence pricing, types of drainage systems, labor considerations, and how to estimate your total project expense.

What Does “Cost Per Linear Foot” Mean?

When contractors price drainage systems, they typically calculate the cost based on linear footage rather than square footage. A linear foot measures length only — not width or depth.

For example, if you install a French drain that runs 100 feet along your yard, your total cost will depend on the price per linear foot multiplied by 100.

The basic cost formula looks like this:

$$TotalCost=CostperLinearFoot\times TotalLinearFeet$$

This straightforward formula helps homeowners estimate project costs quickly once they know the contractor’s rate.

Average Drainage System Installation Cost Per Linear Foot

On average, drainage system installation costs range between:

• $25 to $75 per linear foot for most residential systems

• $80 to $150 per linear foot for complex or deep installations

• $10 to $30 per linear foot for basic surface drains

These costs typically include excavation, pipe materials, gravel, filter fabric, and labor. However, prices can vary significantly depending on local labor rates, soil conditions, accessibility, and system type.

For example:

• A 100-foot French drain at $50 per linear foot would cost approximately $5,000.

• A simple 50-foot trench drain at $30 per linear foot would cost around $1,500.

Types of Drainage Systems and Their Costs

1. French Drains

French drains are among the most common residential drainage solutions. They consist of a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel inside a trench that redirects water away from foundations.

Cost per linear foot: $30 to $75
Best for: Yard drainage, foundation protection, retaining walls

French drains often cost more because they require excavation, gravel fill, pipe installation, and proper grading.

2. Trench Drains (Channel Drains)

Trench drains are surface-level systems typically installed in driveways, patios, or garages to collect and redirect water.

Cost per linear foot: $25 to $60
Best for: Hardscape areas with heavy runoff

Concrete cutting and restoration can increase costs significantly if installed in existing surfaces.

3. Curtain Drains

Curtain drains are shallow versions of French drains, typically installed to intercept surface water before it reaches structures.

Cost per linear foot: $25 to $50
Best for: Yard slopes and landscape drainage

They are generally less expensive because they are installed at a shallower depth.

4. Footing or Foundation Drains

These systems are installed at the base of foundations, often during construction or major foundation repair.

Cost per linear foot: $50 to $150
Best for: Basement waterproofing

These systems are more expensive due to deep excavation and potential structural work.

Factors That Affect Drainage Installation Costs

Several variables influence how much you’ll pay per linear foot.

1. Excavation Depth

The deeper the trench, the more labor and equipment required. A shallow 12-inch trench costs far less than a 4-foot-deep foundation drain.

2. Soil Type

Rocky or clay-heavy soil increases labor time and equipment wear. If contractors encounter large rocks or hardpan soil, costs may rise by 20–50%.

3. Accessibility

If your yard is difficult to access with machinery, manual labor may be required, increasing installation costs.

4. Permit Requirements

Some municipalities require permits for drainage modifications, especially if tying into stormwater systems. Permit costs may range from $50 to $500 depending on location.

5. Material Quality

• Basic perforated PVC pipe: lower cost

• High-quality corrugated or rigid PVC with filter fabric: higher cost

• Premium grates for trench drains: additional expense

Material upgrades can add $5–$20 per linear foot.

Labor Costs Breakdown

Labor accounts for a significant portion of drainage installation expenses. Contractors typically charge:

• $50 to $150 per hour for skilled labor

• 1–3 days for average residential projects

For a 100-foot French drain, labor may represent 50–70% of total project cost. Machinery rental, such as trenchers or mini-excavators, may also be included in contractor pricing.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional Installation

Some homeowners consider installing drainage systems themselves to save money.

DIY Costs:

• Pipe: $1–$3 per foot

• Gravel: $30–$60 per ton

• Filter fabric: $0.50–$1 per foot

• Equipment rental: $200–$400 per day

DIY installation might cost $10–$25 per linear foot, significantly cheaper than professional installation.

However, improper slope grading or poor installation can lead to drainage failure, water pooling, or foundation damage — resulting in costly repairs later.

Professional contractors ensure:

• Proper slope (typically 1% minimum)

• Correct pipe placement

• Reliable water discharge location

Estimating Total Project Cost

To estimate your total cost:

1. Measure the length of the area needing drainage.

2. Determine the appropriate system type.

3. Get a contractor estimate for cost per linear foot.

4. Multiply using the formula provided earlier.

For example:

• 120 feet of French drain at $45 per linear foot:

  • 120 × 45 = $5,400 total estimated cost

You should also budget an additional 10–15% contingency for unforeseen soil conditions or project changes.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond linear footage, some projects require:

• Downspout extensions: $100–$300 each

• Sump pump installation: $1,000–$3,000

• Landscape restoration: $500–$2,500

• Concrete replacement: $5–$15 per square foot

These add-ons can significantly increase overall project expenses.

Is Drainage Installation Worth the Cost?

While drainage installation may seem expensive upfront, it protects your home from:

• Foundation cracks

• Basement flooding

• Soil erosion

• Mold growth

• Structural instability

Foundation repair alone can cost $5,000 to $25,000 or more. Compared to that, preventative drainage systems are often a wise long-term investment.

How to Save Money on Drainage Installation

• Get at least three contractor quotes

• Install during dry seasons

• Combine projects (drainage + landscaping)

• Choose mid-range materials rather than premium options

• Ensure proper grading before installing drains

Proper planning can reduce costs without sacrificing performance.

Final Thoughts

Drainage system installation cost per linear foot typically ranges from $25 to $75 for standard residential projects, though complex systems can exceed $100 per linear foot. The total cost depends on system type, depth, soil conditions, labor rates, and additional restoration work.