Drainage & French Drain Estimate Software for Contractors (2026)

Drainage problems are urgent for homeowners — and the contractor who responds with a clear, detailed proposal first usually wins the job. Drainage estimate software builds a site-specific bid with trench footage, gravel tonnage, and outlet work in minutes.

What drainage contractors need in estimate software

• French drain linear footage — trench depth, width, and pipe size (typically 4" or 6")
• Gravel calculation — cubic yards of #57 or pea gravel required
• Drain pipe — perforated corrugated vs. solid PVC by linear foot
• Inlet and outlet structures — pop-up emitter, catch basin, drywell
• Surface drainage — channel drains, NDS Flo-Well, dry creek bed options

Drainage pricing quick reference (2026)

• French drain (installed, per lin ft) — $30–$70
• Catch basin with 4" pipe (each) — $200–$500 installed
• Channel drain (per lin ft) — $50–$120
• Dry creek bed (decorative, per lin ft) — $25–$60
• Drywell (4' diameter, installed) — $1,000–$2,500
• Regrading (per 100 sqft) — $150–$400
• Sump pump and basin — $800–$2,000 installed

How to estimate a drainage project

1. Walk the property and identify water sources, flow paths, and outlet options
2. Measure trench runs in linear feet; note depth and soil type (rock = more demo cost)
3. Calculate gravel: (lin ft × width ft × depth ft) ÷ 27 = cubic yards
4. Specify outlet structure and where water will discharge (check easements)
5. Add equipment: mini-excavator rental ($350–$600/day) if trenching more than 50 ft

Drainage estimating pitfalls

• Not checking soil percolation before bidding a drywell — clay soil drywells fail fast
• Forgetting to locate utilities before trenching — 811 call is required
• Not getting easement or HOA approval for outlet location — can kill a signed job mid-dig

The ConstruMate drainage calculator handles trench footage, gravel tonnage, pipe, and outlet costs — producing a detailed proposal your client understands and signs on the spot.

Build your free drainage estimate →