You can combine drainage installations with any project in the same area. For example, when installing new landscaping, you might want to check on installing a French drain. When redoing your roof, investigate getting new gutters or having yours fixed. Before finishing your basement, upgrade your French drain. Any time you have new construction underway on your home, consider adding drainage systems, especially if building a new home or constructing a large addition. This is often the ideal time to add a drainage system because contractors are already digging up the ground.