French Drain Solutions: Managing Runoff in Shellharbour

Addressing Water Ingress Challenges in Shellharbour

In Shellharbour, a homeowner encountered a serious and worsening problem with water ingress. Water from two adjacent properties, positioned at a higher elevation, began to flow into their garden and infiltrate the foundation of the house. This water intrusion caused substantial damage to the flooring, led to rising damp, and promoted mould growth within the property, jeopardising recent renovations.

How Can You Identify Signs of Water Intrusion?

The issue originated from both surface runoff and subsurface water flowing downhill from the back and side yards of neighbouring properties. Without an effective drainage solution to intercept this water, it inevitably travelled beneath the house.

Creating an Effective Drainage System

CS Plumbing designed and installed a gravity-fed French drain system aimed at capturing and redirecting water before it could reach the house’s foundation.

The project incorporated several crucial elements:

A French drain system meticulously engineered to gather both surface and subsurface water from neighbouring properties, efficiently channeling it via gravity to a concrete pit.
A 100mm PVC pipe extending from the pit to the curb, equipped with strategically drilled holes to ensure optimal water discharge.
Three new, larger-diameter Colorbond metal downpipes, replacing the original smaller versions, linked to new 100mm PVC piping leading to the curb.
A retaining wall system constructed along the boundary, employing concrete sleepers and galvanised steel posts, with auger holes drilled using an excavator to establish a solid barrier that holds back the adjacent yard.
Effective soil removal conducted on-site with a dumper to ensure streamlined worksite management.

What Actions Can You Take for Effective Water Management?

The newly implemented system now effectively captures both surface and subsurface water at the property boundary, ensuring it is directed away from the home. The homeowner has obtained a robust, low-maintenance solution that safeguards the foundation, flooring, and their investment in renovations.