Kalispell French Drain Installation
Serving Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Polson & Surrounding Flathead Valley
Water damage is one of the most expensive problems Kalispell homeowners face, especially during spring snowmelt and heavy rainfall seasons. If you’re dealing with basement flooding, soggy yards, or foundation water issues in the Flathead Valley, a professionally installed French drain system could be the solution you need.
Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical has been protecting Flathead Valley area homes from water damage for over 33 years. Our expert plumbers design and install French drain systems that effectively redirect water away from your property, keeping your home dry and your foundation secure.
What Is a French Drain?
A French drain is a simple yet highly effective drainage system that redirects surface water and groundwater away from your home’s foundation. Despite its name, the French drain was actually invented by Henry Flagg French, an American farmer and lawyer, in 1859.
The system consists of a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel or rock, installed in a sloped trench. Water naturally flows into the gravel, enters the perforated pipe, and is carried away from your property to a safe discharge area. This prevents water from pooling around your foundation or in problem areas of your yard.
How French Drains Work
French drains operate on a simple principle: water always follows the path of least resistance. The gravel-filled trench creates an easy pathway for water to flow, while the perforated pipe collects and channels the water away from your home. The system works entirely by gravity, requiring no electricity or mechanical components.
What Your Neighbors Are Saying
These guys are professional in every aspect, clean, friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful in every way. Highly recommend Central for all your plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical needs. These folks are outstanding.
Richie and Vander came to the house and repaired the problem with the furnace.
Richie and Vander were also very friendly and did a great job on the repair! Central is a great company with great employees! I have recommended them to friends. Thank you.
Thank you!
More recently, been waiting months for a repair. Called to ask ETA and they say they will call back but like before they never do. Even when I reach out, they tell me they will call with an update.... nothing still. DO NOT WASTE TIME OR MONEY here.
I've had Central to my property three times over the past 5 years and they have always been very knowledgeable, efficient, and answer all of my questions. This time the technician, Trystin, in addition to quickly replacing a faulty part on my furnace also found that the appliance had been wired incorrectly when it was originally installed 20 years ago (and no, they didn't do the install.) After a few changes, all of the elements are working now and the air coming out of the registers is 15 degrees warmer. The furnace doesn't run nearly as long as it used to so the savings on my electric bill will pay for the work done by the end of winter.
The point of this story is that they don't just change parts or try to sell you unnecessary components/service....they really know how to do things right.
I wouldn't hesitate to call them again.
Always calls is there is an issue and sincerely cares about our house!
He’s fantastic!
Been using them for years & would never go anywhere else.
Diagnosed and fixed problem efficiently. Very well done.! I would definitely use them again.!
Thank you.
We are extremely satisfied with the service we received from Lee and the entire staff at CHC. It is comforting to know that we will receive excellent service and appreciate the pre-notification of the member that will be making our service call.
Happy summer to you all!!!!
December 15, 2023.
Thanks again to CHC for outstanding maintenance customer service. Josh was an ACE. He was very knowledgeable, professional, polite, and courteous. You guys never fail to impress us!! And thanks for your new service of introducing the tech via email/text that will be coming to our door. Nice security feature!!
And good luck to Matthew on his new career with CHC.
Once again, Central never lets us down. Efficient, pleasant and great customer service. Trystin is a great service tech. Very thorough and explains all working components. We've been with Central for 11 years now and highly recommend them!!
Mary & Norm Goodnough
January 2025
We are very satisfied with the service we get from CHC.
Matthew did a great job and was very personable and informative.
Thanks to your exceptional team!!
I want to thank CH,CP,for your assistance ws greatly appreciated. The scheduler and technicians, were very professional, The repair, was a quick fix. Although I called today and requested to be seen today, she did wonders and got me in same day.
Office staff very understanding and efficient!
He was generous with his time. I’m
He went above beyond that By rejuvenating all the Wiring in both electrical boxes. Not only was the 30 amp breaker for the dryer burnt up. We also had many other loose wires which he tighten down.
We really feel much better about our electrical panels for our house now… It could’ve been a real problem.
Connor was very knowledgeable and courteous. I would highly recommend him for any of your electrical needs.
We had Conner back to install a whole home surge protector. Again, he did a great job explaining exactly what he did. Always courteous & respectful.
Impressed to his attention to details and knowledge.
Very pleased with his service.
Denver and the young men with him were very very good at what they were doing very polite, courteous and even when my husband talk their ears off, they kept working yes it was nice having them as workers
We are always happy with this company's service.
In parts and labor!! Brought a cover box with them so the pipe is now well protected.
They THINK BEFORE they come and have the parts needed. Very nice, personable, let you know they are on their way. Experience counts when it comes to plumbing and heating!
I’ll use them again for sure. !👍👍
We are very happy with the work he did!
Appreciate his work and as always, I am a satisfied customer.
Newest team member Richie did a phenomenal job for me wiring in the electrical for a new hot tub. He’s top notch.
It started a few weeks prior with Conner’s expert and confident analysis and bid on the first visit, closed out with Richie’s calm and professional installation even when a few curve balls came up.
I’ve used them for anything major and have never been disappointed. Highly recommend.
Lee did a terrific Job upgrading my thermostat along with the scheduled furnace maintenance. He is knowledgeable and efficient.
Also, Steve was a great resource analyzing our home, providing valuable information on the different options when it comes time to replace our furnace and AC.
new Generac generator besides the exceptional reputation of CENTRAL. This company is our go to source for their expertise in multiple trades.
Due to the outstanding presentation by Joel Z. above we had our Generac generator installed today. Connor was lead technician along with Zack and Vander which was on time and worked in a professional manner keeping us informed throughout the installation process. Great crew but we also want to acknowledge the management and ownership of CENTRAL. From our initial experience to our installation today...if you total both reviews CENTRAL is a 10 star company.
Today, January 8 2025, I had a repair completed by Connor of CENTRAL. Please consider this company as an exceptional source for all the trades they perform. Excellent office staff, field technicians as well as management/ownership. You'll never be disappointed...ever!
We have been customers of CENTRAL over 20 years, they are the ones to call when you need heating, cooling, plumbing & electrical experts!
Call us today or request service online to protect your home with professional French drain installation.
Professional Installation Process
At Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical, our French drain installation process ensures long-lasting, effective results:
- Site Assessment: We evaluate your property’s drainage patterns, soil conditions, and water problems to design the most effective system for your specific needs.
- System Design: Our experienced plumbers create a custom drainage plan that addresses your water problems while protecting your landscaping and property layout.
- Excavation: We carefully excavate trenches following the designed slope and route, taking care to protect existing utilities and landscaping.
- Installation: We install high-quality perforated pipe, proper gravel, and filter fabric to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Testing: Before backfilling, we test the system to ensure proper flow and drainage performance.
- Restoration: We restore your landscaping and leave your property clean and ready to enjoy.
- Why Choose Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical?
When you need French drain installation or repair in the Flathead Valley, Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical offers unmatched expertise and service:
Over 33 Years of Local Experience: We understand Montana’s unique drainage challenges and have successfully solved water problems for hundreds of Flathead Valley homeowners.
Full-Service Convenience: As your one-call solution for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical needs, we can address all aspects of your home’s water management systems. From sewer lines to sump pumps.
Comfort Care Program Benefits: Our Comfort Care Program members receive priority service, 10% discounts, and extended warranties on all work.
When Should You Install a French Drain for Your Flathead Valley Home?
Montana’s unique climate and terrain create specific drainage challenges for homeowners. You should consider French drain installation if you’re experiencing any of these common problems:
Basement Water Problems
If your basement regularly floods during spring snowmelt or after heavy rains, a French drain can intercept groundwater before it reaches your foundation walls. This is especially important in the Flathead Valley, where seasonal water table fluctuations are common.
Foundation Settlement Issues
Excess water around your foundation can cause soil erosion and uneven settling. French drains help maintain consistent moisture levels around your foundation, preventing costly structural damage.
Soggy Yard Conditions
Does your yard remain muddy long after rain or snow? Poor drainage creates unusable outdoor spaces and can kill grass and landscaping. A French drain system can restore your yard’s usability.
Retaining Wall Problems
Water buildup behind retaining walls creates dangerous hydrostatic pressure that can cause wall failure. French drains installed behind retaining walls relieve this pressure and extend the life of the wall.
Driveway and Walkway Damage
Water pooling around concrete surfaces leads to cracking, heaving, and premature deterioration. Strategic French drain placement protects your hardscaping investments.
Crawl Space Moisture
Damp crawl spaces promote mold growth and wood rot. French drains can help control moisture levels and protect your home’s structural integrity.
Benefits of Professional French Drain Installation
Protects Your Home’s Foundation
By redirecting water away from your foundation, French drains prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup that can cause foundation cracks, bowing walls, and costly structural damage. This is particularly important in Montana, where freeze-thaw cycles can worsen existing foundation problems.
Prevents Basement Flooding
A properly designed French drain system creates a barrier that intercepts groundwater before it can enter your basement. This protection is invaluable during Flathead Valley’s spring snowmelt season when groundwater levels peak.
Improves Property Value
Homes with effective drainage systems are more attractive to buyers and typically maintain higher property values. French drains represent a smart investment in your home’s long-term worth.
Creates Usable Outdoor Spaces
By eliminating standing water and soggy conditions, French drains help you reclaim your yard for outdoor activities.
Reduces Maintenance Costs
Preventing water damage is far less expensive than repairing it. French drains help you avoid costly foundation repairs, mold remediation, and landscape replacement.
Serving the Entire Flathead Valley
We proudly provide French drain installation and repair services throughout the Flathead Valley, including Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Polson, Lakeside, and Somers. No matter where you’re located in our service area, our experienced team is ready to help protect your home from water damage.
Schedule Your French Drain Consultation Today
Don’t let water damage threaten your home’s foundation and value. Contact Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical today to schedule a professional drainage assessment. Our expert plumbers will evaluate your property’s specific needs and recommend the most effective French drain solution for your situation.
Remember, there’s only one call you need to make for all your plumbing needs in the Flathead Valley. Now That’s Convenient!
Call us today or request service online to protect your home with professional French drain installation.