Perimeter drain systems - A perimeter drain is a French drain that is installed around the interior or exterior of a foundation that is designed to collect water and transfer the water to a sump pump system or gravity drain to a predetermined location away from the foundation.  By collecting and removing the water away from the foundation, perimeter drains relieve the hydrostatic pressure from foundation walls and slabs.

Perimeter drains are generally used in conjunction with drain board, dimple board, or vapor barriers to ensure all water is properly collected and no moisture or vapor can evade the drain system.