This publication presents practical guidelines to assess the need for envelopes and to select appropriate materials (i.e. pipes and envelopes) for the proper and lasting performance of subsurface drainage systems. In addition, it contains guidelines for adequate installation and maintenance of drainage materials as well as the required specifications and standards of such materials, which may be used in tender documents for implementation of subsurface drainage works. Practical guidelines for the implementation of laboratory and field investigations to evaluate the performance of drainage materials have also been included. This paper aims to provide this practical information to drainage engineers and contractors who are in charge of drainage projects. Also published in Spanish.