French Drain Case Study: Effective Runoff Solutions in Shellharbour

Resolving Water Ingress Challenges in Shellharbour

In Shellharbour, one homeowner encountered a serious and worsening problem with water ingress. Water from two adjacent properties situated at a higher elevation began to flow into their garden and infiltrate beneath the foundation of the house. This water intrusion caused extensive damage to the flooring, promoted rising damp, and encouraged 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 rear and side yards of neighbouring properties. Without an effective drainage solution to intercept this water, it inevitably migrated beneath the house.

Creating a Resilient Drainage System

CS Plumbing designed and implemented a gravity-fed French drain system aimed at capturing and redirecting water before it could encroach upon the home’s foundation.

This project incorporated several vital elements:

A French drain system meticulously engineered to gather both surface and subsurface water from neighbouring properties, effectively channeling it through gravity to a concrete pit.
A 100mm PVC pipe extending from the pit to the curb, equipped with strategically placed holes in the curb to ensure optimal water discharge.
Three new, larger-diameter Colourbond metal downpipes, replacing the original smaller models, 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 form a robust barrier that holds back the adjacent yard.
Effective soil removal conducted on-site with a dumper to ensure smooth management of the worksite.

What Measures Can You Implement for Effective Water Management?

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