Brisbane Homeowners Urged to Get Drainage Assessment

Stormwater and backyard drainage systems in Brisbane play a crucial role in protecting your home well beyond the day of a storm. Mould and water damage in your ceiling, walls and floor space are the secret squatters that can appear — often months after a storm. Fortunately, you can safeguard your home by following these expert tips from professional blocked drain specialists.

How Well Do You Know Your Storm Water Drainage Systems? 

When Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred hit Brisbane, was your home prepared? If you panicked at the last minute and cleaned out your gutters, the answer is likely ‘no.’ Extreme weather events are almost becoming an annual occurrence, so prepare for next year now and ensure dangerous biohazards aren’t taking up residence in your home. Start at the top with the roof, gutters, and downpipes, then check stormwater drainage systems including storm drains, French drains, and pipes. Remember, just one bottleneck in your backyard drainage systems and the whole operation will be in vain. 

Roof and Gutter Maintenance 101

Set a schedule and regularly check your roof for leaks, ensuring the flow of Colourbond, tin, or tiles is uninterrupted and has a smooth, clean, sealed run to the gutters. While you are there, clean the dirt, leaves and sediment out of your gutters. Blocked gutters can lead to overflow into your ceiling and wall space, creating the perfect environment for rot and mould. 

Downpipe and Stormwater Drain Maintenance and Upgrading

Older houses tend to have smaller downpipes, and often, they are not enough to handle the sudden and powerful downpours that Brisbane experiences. Ensure that the openings are clean and that there are enough downpipes — one or two will not cut it and will cause overflow into your home. Use a hose to clean the gutters and ensure they clear of leaves, dirt, sediment and rubbish. 

Ensure all your downpipes are connected to the stormwater system.  Unconnected downpipes that discharge water directly at the foundations of your home can lead to subsidence and other costly problems.  

Are your cleaned gutters still overflowing at the first downpour?  Your stormwater system may be blocked or undersized and in need of repairs or upgrade. It is good practice to check your stormwater drains are free flowing and have not been infiltrated by tree roots or other debris. You may be surprised how invasive Brisbane tree roots can be – even growing up your downpipes! 

Back Yard Drainage - Too Important to Neglect

 Do you even have a backyard drainage system? In Brisbane, this is an absolute necessity. Ineffective drainage of ground and stormwater can lead to damaged foundations and severe water damage. 

French drains are a simple and attractive way to install stormwater drainage systems around your home, as are drainage holes and pipes.

Blocked drain specialists in Brisbane urge all homeowners to get a drainage assessment regularly to keep up with the constant threat of water damage. Preventative measures now could save you from expensive and invasive repairs long after the storm has passed.