French Drain Case Study: Managing Runoff in Shellharbour

Addressing Water Ingress Challenges in Shellharbour

In Shellharbour, a homeowner encountered a critical and worsening problem with water ingress. Rainwater from two adjacent properties, situated at a higher elevation, began to flow into their garden and infiltrate the foundations of their house. This water intrusion led to extensive damage to the flooring, promoted rising damp, and resulted in mould growth within the property, jeopardising recent renovations.

How Can You Recognise Water Intrusion?

The issue originated from both surface runoff and subsurface water flowing downhill from the rear and side gardens of neighbouring properties. Without an effective drainage solution to intercept this water, it inevitably made its way beneath the house.

Creating a Reliable Drainage Solution

CS Plumbing designed and implemented a gravity-fed French drain system specifically aimed at capturing and redirecting water before it could compromise the foundation of the home.

The project encompassed several vital elements:

A French drain system meticulously engineered to gather both surface and subsurface water from neighbouring properties, efficiently guiding it through gravity to a concrete pit.
A 100mm PVC pipe extending from the pit to the curb, equipped with strategically drilled holes to enhance water discharge.
Three new, larger-diameter Colorbond metal downpipes, replacing the original smaller versions, connected to new 100mm PVC piping that leads to the curb.
A retaining wall system constructed along the boundary, using concrete sleepers and galvanised steel posts, with auger holes drilled with an excavator to create a robust barrier against the adjacent yard.
Streamlined soil removal on-site facilitated by a dumper to ensure efficient management of the worksite.

What Measures Can You Adopt for Effective Water Management?

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