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Excavate the Trench

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Hidden French train 

What happens here

After planning, excavate a trench along the marked path. The trench should be deep enough to accommodate the perforated pipe, gravel layers, and a top decorative layer, typically 18 to 24 inches deep and 6 to 12 inches wide. Ensure a continuous downward slope towards the designated termination point. Save the excavated soil for later use if needed for other landscaping, or dispose of it appropriately.

Goal: Dig a trench of the correct dimensions and slope for the French drain.

Tools and materials

  • Pickaxe True Temper — Breaking up compacted soil or small rocks
  • Safety Glasses 3M — Protecting eyes from debris
  • Shovel Fiskars — Digging the trench
  • Wheelbarrow Jackson — Moving excavated soil
  • Work Gloves Mechanix Wear — Protecting hands during excavation