Hidden Problems Beneath the Surface

A Port Macquarie family purchased their dream home, only to discover significant drainage issues undermining their comfort and safety. Stormwater sluicing off the driveway was pooling in the foundations of their home, leading to:

• Mould growth on the joists under the house

• Unpleasant odours in the lower section of the home

• Unhealthy air quality, making the sub-space unusable for storage

• Structural concerns as fluctuating moisture levels caused cracks in skirting boards and joins around the home

These issues threatened the family’s well-being, property use, and resale value.

The Cost of Ignoring Stormwater Issues

The persistent water saturation in the foundation soils during every storm event created a humid environment perfect for mould growth. The odour permeated the home, limiting the family’s use of valuable storage space and raising health concerns. Additionally, the ongoing moisture fluctuations were putting unnecessary stress on the home’s structure. Without a solution, the property faced a depreciating value and an increasingly uncomfortable living environment.

An Efficient, Tailored Solution

Enter Jared from Wauchope Plumbing, your trusted local expert in stormwater solutions. Jared worked with the homeowners to identify the drainage issue and designed a comprehensive solution to divert stormwater effectively, with minimal disruption:

1. Stormwater Catchment Installation

   • A 400mm stormwater pit was installed to collect runoff from the driveway.

2. Ag Pipe Integration

   • A 1.5m section of ag pipe was laid to divert water from the stormwater pit into an existing downpipe.

3. Minimal Excavation

   • The solution required only a small amount of excavation, preserving the lawn and soil structure.

   • A hole was carefully bored through the retaining timbers to seamlessly connect the ag pipe to the existing downpipe.

4. Mosquito Prevention

   • To avoid water pooling at the base of the pit, levelling cement was used to raise the floor and establish fall, ensuring complete drainage and eliminating the risk of mosquito breeding.

How a Drainage Fix Improved Health, Stability, and Value

The results of this expertly implemented solution were immediate and far-reaching:

• Eliminated Mould and Odour: Reduced humidity levels stopped mould growth and removed unpleasant odours.

• Usable Storage Space: The sub-space, once plagued by poor air quality, is now a practical storage area.

• Enhanced Structural Stability: Consistent moisture levels prevented further cracking in skirting boards and joins, ensuring the home’s long-term stability.

• Increased Resale Value: Fixing the drainage issues boosted the home’s appeal and market value.

• Peace of Mind: The homeowners now enjoy a healthier living environment and confidence in their investment.

Protect Your Home with Wauchope Plumbing

Stormwater issues can compromise the health, comfort, and value of your home. Wauchope Plumbing’s tailored drainage solutions ensure your property is protected from water damage while preserving its structural integrity. Contact Wauchope Plumbing today for a personalised consultation and see how their expertise can make your home a healthier and more secure place to live.