We have evaluated the some of the benefits and construction issues of the pipe proposal. Now I would suggest advertaddy investigate the possibility of surface drainage. Some reasonably accurate elevation data will be needed to prove the viability. To do what I propose, he will need some materials; a few 2ft stakes, a nylon string line, and a string level. A string level is not a precision instrument and I am not fond of their use where accuracy is needed. But for short distances, and for this case particularly, I think the careful use of a string level will be sufficient. Rather than collect useful data over the whole of the project area, this preliminary study will be concentrated on only the critical grade points. In the graphic above I show the location of a string line that can be used to gather the information needed. Begin at point C by locating a space between fence boards that aligns with the back 6 inches of the patio. At the space between boards drive a wood screw about 1ft above ground level. Tie on a string line and stretch it out toward point B. Select a location for a stake at point "B such that the string passes over the patio near the back edge and also aligns with the jog in the house as shown. Attach the string level at the mid point between B and C. Stretch the string tight and tie to stake B with a loop. Adjust the string height at stake B so that the string level indicates the string is level. Install stakes at A and D. Extend string lines to the end stakes in a like manner with all lines at the same level. Measure the horizontal distance for each line segment. Begin at stake A. Measure the ground to string distance. Move 5 ft down the line toward B and take another measurement. Continue this process until you are near B. Begin anew at B and start the 5 ft intervals from there. Do the same at C and make a last measurement at D Record the measurements in this fashion A-? +5-? +10-? B-? +5 -? +10 -? +15 -? To correct the details of the base map, take measurements as shown in blue.

Boy, that's some digging you've done! In the absence of other replies, I guess I'll ask what (besides the digging work) is preventing you from putting in a full conduit that will daylight some ways down the slope to remove the water from the house entirely. That is, if I understand correctly that a French drain will dissipate the water under the deck. It seems to me that one potential advantage of such a conduit would be that you could collect it to a rain barrel (granted, it would be out in the middle of the yard) for use through the dry season. Usefulness depends whether you have enough slope and if you have anything to water down that low. Or a pool/pond maybe. But otherwise, if you slope your base away from the house, and dissipate your water along the edge of the grass, your local conditions may make this work for you. I think my long experience with flooded basements would make me build the deck and locate the drain so that the piping can be removed and altered in case it doesn't work. KarinL

We need a French Drain installed to divert water around our pool. Can anyone recommend a contractor to do this in the Syracuse, NY area. Thanks.

Sounds like you may need a soil consultant/engineer.