[mrsh]

We have lived in the house for about 5 years. I would notice a few moist spots on the walls and floors after a heavy rain. But now the floor is always damp in the same two spots. One leading to the drain in the floor. Next to that is the little hole with the stones. I'm assuming that is the "french drain". There is another line of moister leading to it. Is it normal to always have a damp floor with this kind of drain? Do they need to cleaned? Help.

[speedball1]

We have lived in the house for about 5 years. I would notice a few moist spots on the walls and floors after a heavy rain. But now the floor is alway damp in the same two spots. One leading to the drain in the floor. Next to that is the little hole with the stones. I'm assuming that is the "french drain". There is another line of moister leading to it. Is it normal to always have a damp floor with this kind of drain? Do they need to cleaned? Help.

To answer your question completely I'd have to be there. No a damp floor is not normal. If this were my call I would look into a sump pump installation.
Let me give you a few tips.
When purchasing a sump pump, you should determine whether a 1/3 horsepower is sufficient for your needs. Alternatively, you may consider a 1/2 horsepower pump. In most situations, a 1/3 hp pump is sufficient, though in areas with heavy water build-up, a 1/2 hp pump will pump the water out faster and higher. Sump pumps usually come with charts explaining their pumping rates.

Sump pump piping should not be diverted into sewage systems or septic tanks. These are usually already heavily taxed during heavy rainfall or snowmelt, and pumping more water in would further stress either system.

The pumped water should be evacuated at least 20 feet away from the house, preferably down the grade of the house.
Let me know if you wish to check out sump pumps on the internet.
Regards, Tom