What are Drain Tiles?

Drain tile, also known as a French drain or perimeter drain, is an underground system designed to collect and redirect excess groundwater away from your foundation. When this system fails or is absent, hydrostatic pressure builds against your foundation walls and beneath your basement floor. This pressure can lead to a range of issues common in Northern Michigan homes:

What do drain tiles prevent?

Basement Leaks and Flooding: Whether you reside in the low-lying areas around the Tri-Cities or in a more rural setting near Gaylord, rising groundwater can seep through cracks in your foundation walls and floors, leading to dampness, mold growth, and even full-blown basement flooding.



Foundation Cracks and Movement: The constant pressure from saturated soil, particularly prevalent during spring thaws in areas like Petoskey and Traverse City, can cause your foundation to crack, shift, and settle, leading to structural problems throughout your home.

Musty Odors and Mold Growth: Even without visible leaks, persistent dampness from groundwater intrusion can create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth, resulting in unpleasant odors and potential health hazards for families across Northern Michigan.

Damage to Finished Basements: For homeowners in communities like Cadillac and Cheboygan who have invested in finishing their basements, groundwater intrusion can destroy drywall, flooring, and personal belongings, leading to costly repairs.

Why Hire Us?

At Northern Waterproofing LLC, serving all of Northern Michigan from our central location in West Branch, we understand the unique challenges our local environment presents. We offer comprehensive drain tile repair and replacement services to ensure your foundation remains protected. Our experienced team can diagnose issues with your existing drain tile system, such as clogs or damage, and provide effective repairs. If your home lacks a drain tile system or your current one is beyond repair, we offer expert installation services using high-quality materials and proven techniques. We tailor our solutions to the specific soil conditions and drainage needs of your property, whether you're in a lakeside community or an inland town.

Don't wait until water damage strikes – let us help you safeguard your Northern Michigan home with a reliable and effective drain tile system.