Addressing Water Ingress Challenges in Shellharbour

A resident of Shellharbour encountered a severe and worsening problem with water ingress. Rainwater from two neighbouring properties, positioned at a higher elevation, began to seep into the yard and penetrate beneath the foundation of the house. This unwanted intrusion caused damage to the flooring, promoted rising damp, and resulted in mould growth within the property, jeopardising the integrity of recent renovations.

How Do You Determine the Origin of Water Ingress?

The issue arose from both surface runoff and subsurface water flowing downhill from the rear and side yards of neighbouring properties. Without a comprehensive drainage system to intercept this influx, the water was forced to flow beneath the house.

Designing an Effective Drainage Solution

CS Plumbing developed and installed a gravity-fed French drain system specifically designed to capture and redirect water before it could reach the home’s foundation.

The project comprised several critical elements:

A French drain system carefully engineered to collect both surface and subsurface water from adjacent properties, directing it through gravity to a concrete pit.
A 100mm PVC pipe extending from the pit to the curb, equipped with strategically drilled holes to ensure effective water discharge.
Three new, larger-diameter Colorbond metal downpipes replacing the original smaller pipes, connected to new 100mm PVC piping leading to the curb.
A retaining wall system constructed along the boundary, utilising concrete sleepers and galvanised steel posts, with auger holes drilled using an excavator to create a sturdy barrier to retain the adjacent yard.
Efficient soil removal on-site, facilitated by a dumper for streamlined site management.

What Measures Can You Implement for Effective Water Management?

The newly installed drainage system now effectively captures both surface and subsurface water at the property boundary, ensuring it is diverted away from the home. This solution provides the homeowner with a long-lasting, low-maintenance option that protects their foundation, flooring, and the investment made in renovations.