Backyard patio drainage gravel strip checklist
This list is for a shallow decorative drainage strip next to an existing patio, not a deep French drain. Check the slope and drainage destination before digging.
What to get
Landscape marking paint
1 can
Flat shovel
1
Trenching shovel
1
Steel landscape rake
1
Landscape fabric
1 roll
Drainage gravel
0.75 cubic yard
Decorative river rock
0.5 cubic yard
Paver edging
30 linear feet
Edging spikes
24
Perforated drainage pipe
20 feet
Drainage pipe sock
20 feet
Solid outlet pipe
10 feet
Pipe coupler
1
Level
1
Tape measure
1
Wheelbarrow
1
Work gloves
1 pair
Safety glasses
1 pair
Who this list is for
This checklist is for a shallow decorative drainage gravel strip beside an existing patio. It is not a deep French drain, and the slope and drainage destination need to be checked before any digging begins.
How to use this list
Mark the strip with landscape marking paint and measure the length with the tape measure. Dig the shallow channel with the flat shovel and trenching shovel, then use the level to maintain the intended slope. Lay landscape fabric, place the perforated drainage pipe inside its drainage pipe sock, and connect it to the solid outlet pipe with the pipe coupler. Add drainage gravel, install paver edging and spikes, then top the strip with decorative river rock.
Common mistakes
Do not start a drainage strip without knowing where the solid outlet pipe will lead. Avoid confusing the perforated drainage pipe with the solid outlet pipe; each has a different location in this layout. Do not cover the fabric with river rock before the pipe, gravel, and edging are correctly set.
What is on this list
The list includes 20 feet of perforated drainage pipe, 20 feet of drainage pipe sock, 10 feet of solid outlet pipe, and one pipe coupler. It also has 0.75 cubic yard of drainage gravel, 0.5 cubic yard of decorative river rock, 30 linear feet of paver edging, 24 spikes, tools, gloves, and safety glasses. Cross off what you own.
When you are done
Clear loose gravel from the patio edge and check that the outlet route remains open. Review the strip after a normal rain to confirm water is moving toward the planned destination. Adjust only within the scope of this shallow strip; seek local guidance for larger drainage concerns.
FAQ
Who is "Backyard patio drainage gravel strip checklist" for?
This checklist is for a shallow decorative drainage gravel strip beside an existing patio. It is not a deep French drain, and the slope and drainage destination need to be checked before any digging begins.
How should I use "Backyard patio drainage gravel strip checklist"?
Mark the strip with landscape marking paint and measure the length with the tape measure. Dig the shallow channel with the flat shovel and trenching shovel, then use the level to maintain the intended slope. Lay landscape fabric, place the perforated drainage pipe inside its drainage pipe sock, and connect it to the solid outlet pipe with the pipe coupler…
What should I skip or avoid with "Backyard patio drainage gravel strip checklist"?
Do not start a drainage strip without knowing where the solid outlet pipe will lead. Avoid confusing the perforated drainage pipe with the solid outlet pipe; each has a different location in this layout. Do not cover the fabric with river rock before the pipe, gravel, and edging are correctly set.
What is on the "Backyard patio drainage gravel strip checklist" list?
The list includes 20 feet of perforated drainage pipe, 20 feet of drainage pipe sock, 10 feet of solid outlet pipe, and one pipe coupler. It also has 0.75 cubic yard of drainage gravel, 0.5 cubic yard of decorative river rock, 30 linear feet of paver edging, 24 spikes, tools, gloves, and safety glasses. Cross off what you own.
What should I do when I am done?
Clear loose gravel from the patio edge and check that the outlet route remains open. Review the strip after a normal rain to confirm water is moving toward the planned destination. Adjust only within the scope of this shallow strip; seek local guidance for larger drainage concerns.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.