A good drainage system is important for maintaining a healthy home. Failure to address drainage problems may result in a home with a low value and increased repair expenses. In Australia, home buyers are quite careful about drainage problems. A drainage issue may impact the safety and appearance of a home. It is important for a home buyer to be aware of the different drainage problems to ensure home safety.
Poorly Graded Landscaping
The slope of your yard plays an important role in drainage. Poorly graded landscaping allows water to pool near the foundation, weakening structural integrity and encouraging mould to grow. In extreme cases, standing water can even erode soil and damage plants or create a perfect breeding ground for pests. Often, correcting the grade requires professional landscaping adjustments made in a manner to divert water away from the home. Failure to correct that often results not only in property damage but also lessens curb appeal, as the home will be less attractive to potential buyers. Further, uneven surfaces can make outdoor areas unsafe for children or elderly residents. Making proper grading invests in both functionality and long-term property value.
Blocked Drains
Clogged drains constitute some of the most pervasive and frequent occurrences in domestic plumbing. This may result from debris, grease, hair, and leaves that may accumulate in the pipes over a considerable period. In Australia, this may be particularly worsened by rains that may cause floods in some parts of a domestic setting. Moreover, clogs in plumbing may cause pipes to leak or develop cracks that may, in turn, affect the foundations. Homeowners should hire the best plumbers in Wollongong to inspect and clear blockages promptly, ensuring water flows smoothly and minimising the risk of structural damage. Failure to address these clogs may also present opportunities for rodents and insects to breed in stagnant water.
Gutter and Downpipe Problems
Functioning gutters and downspouts are intended for safely directing rainwater runoff from the roof and foundation area. Clogged, hanging, or improperly aligned gutters can cause overflows of rainwater, resulting in damage to walls, windows, and landscaping features. Over time, this can cause rotten timber, rusty metalwork, and crumbling masonry. Downspouts not extending far enough from the house lead to soil erosion and flooding around the foundation. Maintenance of gutters is required if one hopes to avoid these conditions from negatively affecting property value. Clogged gutters can also cause tarnishing of exterior wall surfaces, thereby negatively affecting the aesthetic value of the building. Extreme cases of overflow can cause damage to fences, driveways, or pathways around the house.
Leaking or Damaged Pipes
Leaks in the pipes that are hidden beneath the ground or inside the building can be more harmful because of the challenges associated with detection and diagnosis. Leaks in the pipes can weaken foundations, cause floors to bow, and damage walls, resulting in expensive repair work and potential hazards associated with structural damage. In addition, the accumulated moisture creates ideal conditions for the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to the building’s occupants. It is important to take immediate remediation of the problem to ensure the longevity of your home and the retention of your home’s value in the event of selling. Even the slightest leakages can contribute to high water bills and wastage of resources in the long run.
See also: What Is A Home Security Survey & How Does It Work
Stormwater Management Failures
Efficient stormwater run-off management is important in areas where intense rainfall is experienced, such as areas around Australia. This is because improper stormwater run-off management can result in flash floods, erosion, and damage to other structures around the building in question. Water accumulation around the building can contribute to the destruction of gardens, driveways, and patio areas while influencing the structural soundness of the building itself. Spending money on the installation of stormwater run-off management systems such as retention basins, French drains, and stormwater pipes helps to protect your building and increase your sales potential, as and when you need to resell the building.
Issues related to drainage can creep behind and undermine the worth of the property. Right from a blocked drain to a leaky pipe or a wrong drain for the stormwater system, the danger with each aspect affects the safety and aesthetic appeal of a place. Taking necessary action based on the common factors related to the drainage system will enable a homeowner to live in a safe and healthy home.
