Drain-tile pipe sizes & slope conventions

Drain tile (perforated pipe in gravel) carries water to a sump or daylight. Common pipe is 3–4 in, laid at about a 1% slope (~1 in per 8 ft) so it drains. These are stable conventions, not code — confirm local requirements. Apply them in the French drain and interior drain tile tools.

ElementConventionNotes
Pipe size3–4 in perforatedCorrugated or rigid PVC
Slope (fall)~1% (≈ 1 in per 8 ft)Enough to drain, not so steep it silts
Gravel surroundwashed stoneWrap in filter fabric to resist clogging
Outletsump or daylightInterior tile → sump; exterior → daylight if grade allows

Timeless conventions, not a code reference — confirm pipe, slope and outlet requirements with your local building department.