French Drain Case Study: Effective Runoff Solutions in Shellharbour

Addressing Water Ingress Challenges in Shellharbour

In Shellharbour, a homeowner encountered a critical and worsening problem with water ingress. Water from two adjacent properties situated at a higher elevation began to flow into their garden and infiltrate the foundation of their house. This water penetration led to 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 back and side yards of neighbouring properties. Without an effective drainage system to intercept this water, it inevitably travelled under the house.

Creating a Durable Drainage Solution

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

This project included several crucial elements:

A French drain system specifically designed to collect both surface and subsurface water from neighbouring properties, effectively channelling it through gravity to a concrete pit.
A 100mm PVC pipe extending from the pit to the curb, featuring strategically drilled holes in the curb to ensure optimal water discharge.
Three new, larger-diameter Colorbond metal downpipes, replacing the original smaller versions, connected to new 100mm PVC piping leading to the curb.
A retaining wall system constructed along the boundary, using concrete sleepers and galvanised steel posts, with auger holes drilled using an excavator to form a solid barrier to retain the adjacent yard.
Effective on-site soil removal conducted with a dumper to facilitate streamlined management of the worksite.

What Measures Can You Implement for Effective Water Management?

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