French Drain Case Study for Effective Runoff Management 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 beneath the foundation of their 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?

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

Crafting a Reliable Drainage Solution

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

The project comprised several key elements:

A French drain system specifically designed to collect both surface and subsurface water from nearby properties, effectively channeling it through gravity to a concrete pit.
A 100mm PVC pipe extending from the pit to the curb, which featured strategically drilled holes to facilitate 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, made from concrete sleepers and galvanised steel posts, with auger holes drilled by an excavator to create a sturdy barrier against the neighbouring yard.
Efficient soil removal conducted on-site using a dumper to ensure smooth management of the worksite.

What Measures Can You Implement for Effective Water Management?

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