All posts by Drainage NZ

Solving the Mystery of a Leaking House: How to Identify & Fix Water Leaks in Your Basement

Discovering a leaking house can be a disheartening experience. You can spend hours searching for the source of the leak only to come up empty-handed. Unfortunately, water leaks are a common problem in many homes, especially those with basements. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and fix water leaks in your home. This blog will discuss the common causes of water leaks in homes, how to fix them, and how to prevent further leaks. Read on to learn more about how to solve the mystery of a leaking house.

What to Do When You Discover a Leaking House

If you discover that your house is leaking, the first thing to do is assess the damage. Take note of any visible signs of water damage, including water stains on the walls and ceilings, mould, and warped floors. If you suspect a water leak, locate the source of the leak as quickly as possible. This will help you determine the best way to address the problem.

The most important thing to remember is that water leaks can cause serious damage if left unchecked. It’s essential to act fast to avoid costly repairs down the line. If you’re concerned about the safety of your home, contact a professional to inspect the area and make the necessary repairs.

What Causes Water Leaks in Your House?

There are a variety of factors that can cause water leaks in your house. The most common culprit is ground water entering a home when it is buried underground and having nowhere else to go but inside your home.

In some cases, the source of the leak may be difficult to pinpoint. If this is the case, it’s best to call in a professional to help you identify the source of the leak. A professional can quickly pinpoint the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.

Identifying the Source of the Leak

The first step in solving the mystery of a leaking house is to identify the source of the leak. This can be a tricky process, as the source of the leak may not be immediately apparent.

Start by looking for any visible signs of water damage, such as water stains on the walls or ceiling, mould, or warped floors. If you can’t find any obvious signs of a water leak, it’s time to start looking for more subtle signs.

Check for any unusual smells or sounds, such as a musty smell or gurgling noises. You may also want to check for any signs of moisture or dampness in the walls, floors, and ceilings. If you can’t find any visible signs of water damage, it’s time to call a professional. A professional will be able to pinpoint the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.

Common Causes of Water Leaks in Basements

Basements are one of the most common areas for water leaks. This is because basements are usually the lowest point in the home, making them susceptible to flooding.

The most common cause of water leaks in basements is poor drainage. If your basement has no means of diverting ground water away from the home then it will enter the home instead. Water can easily seep in and cause damage.

Drainage Subsoil Solutions

If the source of the leak is poor drainage, you may want to consider installing a drainage subsoil system. A drainage subsoil system is designed to redirect water away from the house, preventing it from seeping in and causing water damage.

The drainage subsoil system consists of a network of pipes and trenches that are installed around the perimeter of the house. The pipes and trenches are designed to collect and divert water away from the house, preventing it from seeping in and causing damage.

This type of system is relatively lengthy and expensive to install but is the most effective way to prevent water damage long-term. If you’re concerned about the safety of your home, it’s best to call in a professional to install the system for you.

How to Prevent Future Leaks

Once you’ve fixed the source of the leak, it’s important to take steps to prevent future leaks. Whilst all the trenches are open around the home, the drain layers would seal up any obvious entry points to the home such as cracked bricks or holes in the walls. The drain layers also apply 2 coats of waterproof paint as a precaution to prevent any more water from entering the home.

DIY or Hire a Professional?

When it comes to fixing a leaking house, it’s important to decide whether you’ll do the repairs yourself or hire a professional. While it’s tempting to attempt DIY repairs, it’s usually best to call in a professional. This is because water leaks can cause serious damage if left unchecked. A professional will be able to quickly identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.

If you want to get Drainage NZ to look at your house to see what can be done to stop the water form getting in, they offer a free consultation. During the consultation, they’ll inspect your home and provide you with a detailed report on the best way to address the problem.

Uncover Hidden Problems in Your Home with a CCTV Inspection!

It’s no secret that our homes are often the source of many of our biggest headaches. Whether it’s broken pipes, blocked drains, or simply an area of the house that needs a bit of TLC, we often find ourselves searching in the dark for a solution. But what if there was a way to quickly and accurately identify the issue and get it fixed? Well, that’s where a CCTV inspection comes in.

Introduction to CCTV Inspections
A CCTV inspection is the use of a closed-circuit television camera to inspect a home’s plumbing and drainage system. This type of inspection allows professionals to “see” inside the pipes and pinpoint any potential problems. It’s an invaluable tool for plumbing and drainage professionals and homeowners alike, as it allows for quick and accurate diagnosis of any issues.

The process is simple. A CCTV camera is inserted into the pipes and moved along the length of the pipe. As it moves, it takes pictures and videos of the interior of the pipe, allowing the technician to identify any potential problems. This information is then relayed back to the technician, who can then determine what needs to be done to fix the problem.

What Can a CCTV Inspection Reveal?
A CCTV inspection can reveal a multitude of problems. From broken pipes to blocked drains, a technician can pinpoint the exact problem and provide a solution. It can also help to identify any potential problems before they become an issue. This is especially helpful in older homes, where it can be difficult to identify any potential issues without a thorough inspection.

Some of the most common issues that a CCTV inspection can reveal include:

Blockages in the pipes
Leaks or breaks in the pipes
Root intrusion
Corrosion
Structural damage to the pipes
Cracks or holes in the pipes

How to Prepare for a CCTV Inspection
Preparing for a CCTV inspection is relatively easy. Before the technician comes to inspect the property, it’s important to ensure that all of the necessary access points are open and easily accessible. This includes manholes, cleanouts, and other access points.

It’s also important to make sure that the area around the pipes is clear, as this will help the technician to get a better view of the pipes. If there is any debris or obstructions in the way, it’s important to remove them before the technician arrives.

Finally, it’s a good idea to make sure that the pipes are clean. This can be done by flushing them out with water and running a snake through the pipes if needed. This will help to ensure that the technician can get a clear and unobstructed view of the pipes.

What to Look Out For During the Inspection
During the inspection, the technician will be looking for a variety of different things. They will be looking for any signs of damage or corrosion, as well as any blockages or root intrusions. They will also be looking for any signs of leaks, as these can be extremely dangerous and need to be fixed as soon as possible.

The technician will also be looking for any structural damage to the pipes. This can include cracks, holes, or breaks in the pipes. This is especially important in older homes, as these types of issues can often go unnoticed and can lead to serious problems down the line.

Common Problems Revealed by CCTV Inspections
The most common problems revealed by CCTV inspections are blockages, leaks, and root intrusions. Blockages are caused by a build-up of debris or other materials in the pipes, which can block the flow of water. Leaks can be caused by a variety of things, including broken pipes, corrosion, or even structural damage. Root intrusions are caused by tree roots growing into the pipes, which can cause blockages and damage the pipes.

How to Fix Common Problems Revealed by CCTV Inspections
After a CCTV inspection, the technician will be able to identify any problems and recommend the best course of action. In most cases, the technician will recommend one of two options: water blasting or unblocking.

Water blasting is a process where high-pressure water is used to flush out any blockages or debris from the pipes. This is usually the most effective option for blockages and is also relatively quick and easy.

Unblocking is a more involved process, where the technician uses specialized tools to remove the blockage from the pipes. This process is usually used for more serious blockages, such as root intrusions.

The Benefits of Using a CCTV Inspection
There are a number of benefits to using a CCTV inspection. First and foremost, it can help to identify any potential problems before they become an issue. This can save homeowners a lot of time, money, and stress.

A CCTV inspection can also save homeowners money in the long run. By identifying any issues before they become serious, homeowners can save money on repairs and avoid any costly problems down the line.

Finally, a CCTV inspection is a great way to help maintain the health of your home’s plumbing and drainage system. By identifying any potential problems and addressing them quickly, homeowners can help to ensure that their plumbing and drainage system stays in good condition for years to come.

Important Considerations When Choosing a CCTV Inspector
When choosing a CCTV inspector, it’s important to consider a few different factors. First and foremost, it’s important to make sure that the inspector is qualified and certified. This will ensure that the inspection is performed correctly and that any potential problems are identified and addressed quickly.

It’s also important to consider the cost of the inspection. CCTV inspections can be expensive, so it’s important to shop around and find the best deal. It’s also important to make sure that the inspector is experienced and knowledgeable, as this will ensure that the inspection is thorough and accurate.

Tips for Maintaining Your Home After a CCTV Inspection
Once the inspection is complete, it’s important to take steps to maintain your home’s plumbing and drainage system. This includes regular inspections of all access points, such as manholes and cleanouts. It’s also important to make sure that all pipes are clear of debris and that any minor repairs are addressed quickly. Finally, it’s important to make sure that all pipes are properly insulated to help prevent any issues in the future.

Conclusion
A CCTV inspection is an invaluable tool for homeowners and drainage professionals alike. It can help to quickly and accurately identify any potential problems and allow for quick and effective remedies. It can also help to maintain the health of your home’s plumbing and drainage system, saving you time and money in the long run.

If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced CCTV inspector, then look no further than Drainage NZ. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, they are sure to get the job done right. Get Drainage NZ to do the next CCTV job at your house!

What is a Cesspit NZ?

A cesspit or catchpit is a drainage system used primarily in stormwater management. Whether it is sewerage or stormwater, a cesspit is designed to prevent blockages and water contamination in a drainage system. A cesspit is a chamber that allows debris and sediments to settle to the bottom of a pit. For this reason it is advisable to regularly maintain your cesspit by emptying and cleaning at least once a year.

Why do you need a cesspit?

A cesspit is typically found upstream of a drainage system. This way the cesspit can collect all debris before it enters public or private stormwater pipes.

Cesspits are most commonly found in gardens, driveways or roadways. These environments typically collect large quantities of debris and sediment which if allowed through would cause blockages in a public drainage system. A blockage could cause flooding, water to return back up a pipe or worse damage property. Therefore a cesspit is vital when managing surface water in any of these environments.

By law all channels and subsoil drainage must flow into a cesspit to ensure no debris can flow into the private or public stormwater lines. For example, a driveway channel may be a vector for debris to collect, and so all water must be filtered before it can be discharged into the stormwater line.

How does a cesspit / catchpit work

Basically, a cesspit works by providing a sump where sediment and debris can fall and collect. Water overflows at the top level of the cesspit leaving debris behind at the bottom of the pit. The clean water then exits through the outlet pipe, which sits just lower than the inlet pipe.

To protect the outlet pipe against potential floating debris, a baffle can be fitted to the outlet. This can help filter leaves and twigs, stopping them from entering the pipe.

Because silt, sediment and debris build up in the sump of the cesspit, regular maintenance and cleaning of the cesspit is required. Typically the average cesspit should be cleared out annually to prevent a build up of debris. Such a build up could cause the cesspit to become ineffective, increasing the likelihood of damage from unmanageable water.

Types of cesspits

The most common form of catchpit is a roadside catchpit. Catchpits can be found intermittently alongside Auckland roads. What is unique about these types of catchpits is their design. Roadside cesspit openings must not allow objects greater than 100mm in dimension to pass through. Openings must also be small enough to prevent sizable debris from entering the system that may cause damage. These cesspits are typically larger than ones found on residential property. Under New Zealand building code these cesspits are known as a type 2 surface water sump.

A type 1 cesspit is no larger than an office paper bin. These cesspits are commonly used in residential applications such as in a driveway or garden.

There are many different names for a cesspit, such as:

  • Catchpit
  • Bubble up chamber
  • Receiving chambers
  • wet chambers
  • Dry chambers

Regardless of the name, the principles are the same. Incoming water is filtered to remove contaminants before entering a larger drainage system. This now clean water can then be confidently reused, recycled, or safely discharged into our oceans or environment.

Cesspits come in a variety of materials. The physical sump is typically made of:

  • Concrete
  • Polyethylene plastic

The top grate of a cesspit is typically made of iron. Iron grates are extremely durable and heavy. This prevents the grate from blowing away in strong weather.

With the increasing popularity of bicycle lanes, a newly designed cesspit finish is becoming more common. This new design is a flat stainless steel grate. Unlike the normal curved iron grate, this cesspit finish is designed to prevent accidents on bikes and scooters. More traditional curved grates can act like a pothole, dismounting commuters off their bike.

Maintenance

Because a cesspit is a static installation designed to filter stormwater it can quickly become full. If Debris and sediment pile up it will cause a blockage, damage and even flooding. Therefore it is necessary to regularly maintain cesspits by clearing excess waste. Ideally this should be done yearly.

Every homeowner should be concerned whether their cesspit is functional or not. One quick test you can do at home is to look down into your cesspit. If you cannot see an outlet pipe then it most likely means your cesspit is overflowing or blocked.

We at Drainage NZ offer our own regular maintenance service. Book with us and receive annual maintenance on your cesspit. We’ll turn up at the same time every year to empty and clean your cesspit with no fuss and at a competitive price.

Give us a call on 0800 372 465 or contact us online to organise maintenance on your cesspit.

Flooding: When council systems fail, what to do

When the drainage infrastructure fails it could spell disaster for your home or neighborhood. Council lines are not immune to failure, especially during a storm surge. When this happens it can cause flooding. Putting your home at risk of water damage. Even something minor like a boggy lawn can lead to problems in the future. Furthermore, If your home is older than 30 years old then this could put your home’s foundation at risk, causing structural faults.

Managing Flooding

So, flooding can be a serious issue for your property. Therefore having sufficient drainage solutions is key to prevent unexpected damages. Saving you a headache and thousands of dollars in the future.

If you notice parts of your property, such as your lawn collecting water this may be a sign of poor drainage. Subsoil drainage can help solve this issue. A pipe is placed underground and removes excess water to a nearby storm water sewer.

But what if the Council Lines Fail?

The drains and sewers built by the local council to serve as drainage for your area are only rated to a certain capacity. If there is a significant amount of rain such as during a storm then this could lead to flooding. Rivers could begin to spill out of their banks, and debris could clog the pipes. When this happens the council lines may not be able to remove the water fast enough.

If your area is prone to floods and you are concerned for your property what actions can you take to protect your home? Since subsoil drainage relies on the council storm water sewer then it is as good as useless in the event of flood. However there is a solution.

Underground detention tanks act as a buffer between your home’s subsoil drainage and the council lines. A detention tank stores water and discharges it into the council lines slowly to prevent over burdening the system. This also means that in the event of a storm, the tank can simply store the water until the drain can remove it.

If your property suffers from flooding or poor drainage give us a call at 0800 DRAINLAYER (372 465) or contact us online for a solution.


Drain Unblocking Remuera

We got a call from our client in Remuera as they were experiencing, blocked toilets, blocked shower drains, blocked sinks and even sewage backflowing through the shower drain. With our team of blockage experts and specialist unblocking equipment, our client was in safe hands.

Before Unblocking

Thanks to our team of expert drain unblockers in Remuera, we were able to clear the line so that the occupants can use everything! when it comes to a block like this, as it is very uncommon for a line to block this intensively without there being something to cause it, we recommended our drain unblocking and CCTV combo deal. We put the camera down the line to investigate what could have caused the blockage, what we found was a number of cracked sections, with tree roots coming is, as well as a completely collapsed buchan trap, but even then we still got the line free-flowing so that it can be used before the appropriate repairs are completed which were quoted the same day.

After unblocking

Don’t just get a drain unblocker in, get Drainage NZ, we don’t just unblock the line, we make sure its not going to block again, give us a call or leave us a message and well get it sorted for you

A Kiwis’s Guide to Preventing Mould Damage in Basements

Going down to the basement and finding that it’s filled with nasty moulds can be quite a nightmarish situation. Besides the fact that water damage is quite an eyesore, those rapidly growing microscopic organisms can trigger several health problems and structural concerns. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent or mitigate mould damage in basements. Read through our short guide below and get expert insights on how you can handle the situation.

What are Moulds, and How can they Affect you?

Moulds can grow anywhere, even in well-maintained places. It’s a type of fungi, which means it propagates quickly in highly moist areas. The humid climate in New Zealand is also a major contributing factor of mould overgrowth.

They naturally occur outdoors, especially on dead trees and other types of debris. However, they can spread on various material such as wallpaper, wooden tiles, ceiling, and wooden supporting beams when they invade homes. If left undiscovered, mould overgrowth can cause severe structural damage as the materials rot and weaken. It also impacts your home’s aesthetic because of dark or sometimes greenish stains on the affected areas.

As we’ve mentioned earlier, moulds can also increase risks for many health problems, including:

  • Pneumonitis
  • Allergic sinusitis
  • Asthma attacks
  • Aspergillosis

How to Prevent Moulds from Growing, especially in the Basement

Most of the time, mould problem starts in the basement due to leaky pipes and other plumbing issues. That’s why it’s crucial to have your pipe problems fixed before they cause water damage. Some signs of pipe damage or leaks that you need to look out for include the following:

  • Unexplainably high water bill
  • Musty smell especially in rooms with a lot paper and wood
  • Visible stains caused by mildews or moulds
  • Wet and moist parts on the ceiling or walls

It’s also good practice to check for basement flooding. If your property was constructed back in the 1980s, it might be susceptible to basement flooding due to the absence of subsoil drainage. While it may be tempting to use stormwater sumps, it’s best to choose either waterproofing solutions or subsoil drainage installation to keep the water from coming in and accumulating in the area.

Here are other specific applications of subsoil drainage installation:

  • Properties with uneven landscape and high contour differences 
  • Auckland homes that have clay soil
  • Properties that require building retaining walls

If you already have subsoil drainage, you may opt to use basement flooding solutions instead. Talk to a drainlayer to know the most practical method to use to waterproof your home.

What to Do after Getting Rid of Extra Moisture in the Basement

Once you keep the moisture levels at an ideal rate, it will be easier to prevent or mitigate the damage. If you’re only dealing with minor damage, scrubbing with a powerful cleaning solution made from soap, bleach and water may be enough to clear out the mould and mildew.

However, if the damage is too severe and extensive, it’s better to call for a mould remediation professional. Dealing with severe mould overgrowth in your home is not recommended because it exposes you to health risks. Also, you might not address the problem as effectively as a mould removal or remediation specialist would.

Take note tht failing to remove or clean all the mould-infested areas would only spell trouble for your hour household in the next few months. The moulds can grow back and cause the same problem over and over until you completely address the root cause of it all.

Act Fast and Prevent Future Problems!

If you think your area is susceptible to mould damage and infestation, you need to act quickly. Have your drainage checked or ask for a professional house waterproofing to prevent moisture from seeping into the interiors. It’s also helpful to eliminate other moisture sources in the property such as washing machine or dishwasher leaks, poorly insulated windows or crawlspaces, and sewer backups. 

Get in touch with a drainage specialist or an Auckland drainlayer today to help protect your home from moulds.

Unblocking A Stubborn Drain – How Experts Deal with Clogged Pipes

Dealing with blocked drainage can be very cumbersome. However, it’s important to get it done as soon as possible to avoid paying for expensive repairs. With a clogged sewer line, waste water can’t flow down the line drain. Instead, the water flows back into the pipes inside a house or a commercial building. For many people, this means trouble, especially when the waste water starts damaging the property and leaving an undesirable scent.

Causes of a clogged drainage

Clogged drain pipes are perhaps one of the most common issues faced by many property owners. And there are plenty of reasons why this happens. Here are some of the common causes of a blocked drain:

  • Hardened grease, oil, fats and decaying food particles
  • Chemical buildup from bathroom products such as toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
  • Flushed toilet paper, paper towels, wet wipes and sanitary napkins/tampons
  • Soil or construction debris during a home renovation project
  • Deteriorating plants or leaves during autumn
  • Offset drain pipes, especially in old properties
  • Mineral buildup inside the pipes because of hard water

Signs your drain is blocked

It’s not easy to figure out when a drain pipe gets blocked, mostly because the system is underground. Most of the time, people don’t even know that they have blocked drainage until the damage is beyond repair. Thankfully, there are some key telltale signs that your drain is blocked:

  • Unpleasant smell coming from the drain – One of the most obvious signs that you have a clogged drain pipe is foul sewage odour. Organic matter breakdown releases unpleasant smelling gases such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen.
  • Toilet won’t flush or the water level is too high – You know there’s something wrong with the drain pipes when the water in the toilet bowl looks abnormally high.
  • You hear a gurgling sound from the pipe – A gurgling noise coming from the plug hole, drain and toilet bowl can also denote that there is a buildup of grease, dirt or other material in the drain.
  • Water keeps on backing up to your tub, sink and shower –
  • Water on the kitchen, laundry or bathroom floor –

Dealing with a clogged drain

If you see any of the signs enumerated above, you need to act fast. It might be worth it to use DIY remedies to unclog the pipes, especially when the problem is not that serious. After all, who doesn’t want to save a few dollars on a survey.

However, most of the time, it’s more practical to call in a drain unblocking professional. It saves you time and money, plus you don’t need to figure out your problems on your own. With the help of a trained plumber, you get to the bottom of the issue fast and you prevent other expensive problems to arise.

Here are some of the ways that experts use to unblock drain pipes:

  • Mechanical unblocking – The standard process to deal with a blocked drain involves the use of equipment such as motorised drain snake. The service charge starts at $295.
  • Camera inspection – There are some instances where plumbers need to use a camera to inspect drain. With CCTV drain survey, plumbers get to identify what is blocking the drain.

Hydro blasting – Hydro- jetting or hydro blasting is a technique used to clean or clear out surfaces or pipes. It involves the use of highly-pressurized water to dislodge materials.

For severe cases, you may need to avail additional services such as pipe excavation. The process involves the removal and replacement of the blocked pipes. The service can cost around $229 if its a basic dig up and replace.  

Besides dealing with the blockage, you should also consider having your pipes cleaned on a regular basis. You can book a sucker truck service for $207 so you can get rid of organic matter accumulating inside the drain pipes.

You can also install sediment water filter cartridge to minimise the amount of soil, rocks, and silt accumulating in the drain.

Lastly, if you make use of an underground grease trap, see to it that you have it cleaned every once in a while. Without a clean grease trap, more fat, oil and grease or FOG end up in the drain. And overtime, they accumulate and cause plumbing mishaps aka blockaghes. 

How to prevent clogging of drain pipes

Clogged drains are quite annoying but at the same time, preventable. After a plumber restore it to good condition, your next priority is to keep it that way for a long time. It will help you avoid trouble plus paying for additional or follow up services. Here are the simplest and most practical ways you can keep your drain clear:

  • Never dump leftover food in the sink
  • Allow liquid grease to cool and have them disposed properly
  • Do not pour fat or oil in the kitchen sink
  • If the main line supplies hard water, use a water softener to prevent material buildup
  • Utilise hair catcher on the drain to prevent hair from getting into the pipes

Book a drain unclogging service today!

Notice signs that your drain is blocked by material buildup? Have your drain pipe inspected fast! Find out what’s causing the issue so that you know the best approach to use with the help of Drainage NZ. Failure to unclog your drain on time can cause all sorts of issues that can cause long-term and expensive damage to your property. Start mitigating the issue today!

Test your house and basement areas for moisture.

Moisture issues can be a drag, especially if you’re just starting out in your new home. Usually, moisture problems are solved with the right foundations and wall treatment with the appropriate drainage system. If you need Auckland moisture testing, then you’ve come to the right place. We have our own specialized tools to test for moisture. Plus, we provide solutions that last a lifetime, not just for a few years.

Moisture testing can be tricky. You can Do-It-Youself (DIY) or hire experts to do it for you. Keep in mind that going down the DIY route may cause more harm than good if you’re not familiar with the task at hand.

These are the things we do during Moisture Testing in Auckland:

  • Pre-home-purchase survey home moisture testing,
  • Damp basement moisture tests,
  • Leaky home building testing, and
  • Post flood drying test.

Protect Your Family’s Health and Safety

Building moisture in any home or building is almost always at the top of the list of the most common problems uncovered during home inspections for buyers. Building moisture, especially in the basement and attic, is usually overlooked during home moisture testing. If you have moisture problems in your home, then you need to find an expert in home moisture testing.

Usually after flooding in an area, people tend to think that the surface looks and feels dry; hence, it must be dry. This is so far from the truth. Floodwater tends to get into everything – skirting board, wall cavities, jib, dry carpet, and flooring.

Even though the surfaces look dry and can be dried using dehumidifiers or fans, more often than not, there are moisture problems in these areas.

The truth of the matter is, the real problem is the hidden moisture, which can’t always be visible to the naked eye. Left unchecked, this will cause mold to grown in areas that you can’t see, which will cause damage to your house leaving rotting areas, long term mold, and unpleasant smells in your home. You will need the help of experts to dry your carpet, walls, and cavities.

Mould Testing and Removal

Excessive moisture in your house can lead to inconvenient and unwanted problems such as rotted framing, odors, foundation movement, structural pests, as well as allergy causing molds. In fact, some molds may cause cancer so you need to take this problem seriously.

Mold Moisture Test

Mold tends to grow in areas where it has food and water, which are usually found in buildings. The mold growth reveals the excess home moisture, which may be caused by leaking water pipes, flooding, and other building materials.

Mould Release Toxins Resulting In Health Effects, Including:

  • Allergies,
  • Asthma and Other Breathing Disorders,
  • Eye, Nose, and Sore Throat,
  • Skin Problems,
  • Fatigue, and
  • Headache

Moisture Meter Probe Tests

Moisture probes and no evasive moisture meters are effective for testing inside the building material or structure.

Here are 7 steps to manually check the moisture problem in your house:

1. Carefully check the wall surface.

Look for discoloration in the surface, including yellowing material or rounded brown spots. Also, black discolorations that are often furry will indicate mold and mildew growths. Check also the wall texture for peeling paint, warping, or buckling surfaces.

2. Slightly push on the wall to check how it feels.

Drywall that’s moisture damaged will feel soft and spongy. Meanwhile, wood-sheathed walls might feel a bit solid, even if there’s a moisture problem. You can use a butter knife or screwdriver to scrape across the surface or poke into the wall to reveal damaged wood.

3. Smell-test the wall for moisture.

Wet wall interiors are the favorite environment for mildew and mold to grow. It’s dark and moist, with lots of food available for the fungus. The more moisture there is in your walls, the faster the mold grows, leading to wood rot. Musty smelling walls are sure sign of moisture problem. Get your nose closer to the wall interior by removing the faceplate from a wall outlet, which helps you discover the problem faster.

4. Drill holes into the wall.

You will need to drill two small holes, about 3/16 inches in diameter and about 1 inch apart, into the wall. You can work from the house interior or exterior both methods work. Outside, drill a hole that’s deep enough to pass through the siding without drilling into the exterior wall sheathing. Once inside, drill through the wall, past the vapor barrier and into the insulation.

5. Insert the probes from a probe moisture meter into the bored holes.

Turn the meter on.Then, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and read the moisture content display. You will need to adjust the probes to get a steady reading and accurate results. Take several readings, for instance, 3 readings in 30 minutes.

6. Compare the reading to ideal moisture levels.

Zero moisture is not practical or even realistic. Any wood that’s been used to frame a house should have a certain amount of moisture. Normal readings should measure around 7 to 13 percent moisture. In fact, slightly higher readings may be normal for your house. However,extremely high readings need immediate attention.

7. Fill the test holes if moisture levels are normal inside your wall.

Following the test, if visual and mechanical readings indicate normal moisture levels within your wall, fill the test holes. Then squirt colored or clear silicone caulk into the hole from outside to fill it and make it waterproof. Use wood putty or spackling compound and drywall tape to cover hopes inside the house. However, if your moisture test is positive, you need to tear off the wall sheathing to repair the wall interior, as needed.

You can do these steps yourself in a DIY manner. However, if you want professional Auckland moisture testing for basement flooding in your house or building, call us and we’ll send you a quote right away. We have our own specialized tools to test for moisture and provide solutions that last a lifetime. Book an Auckland moisture testing with us today.

We Build Rock Walls and Provide Concrete Services

Drainage NZ have been providing residential and commercial drainage services for over a decade successfully. Drainage works more than often require concrete cutting, driveway removal, and demolishing of existing landscape, including retaining walls.

Once all drainage works are complete, these areas need to be reinstated. What’s even more important is that reinstatement should complement the newly installed drainage system.

Whether it’s a new subsoil installation or a repair or replacement of storm water and sewer lines, these reinstatement and landscaping works need to be done correctly. This got us thinking!

Since we have all the expertise, machinery and manpower, we can offer our customers these services directly. We save you thousands of dollars and ensure a third-party contractor does not undermine the new drainage system.

As such, we have already started providing these services to dozens of clients to this extent and they extremely satisfied with the result! We officially offer the following service to New or Existing clients:

Volcanic Rock Walls

Also known as Lava Rock Walls, Volcanic Rock Walls are walls built from volcanic rocks. There are many ways to build volcanic rock walls. Many contractors use bigger rocks at the bottom and pile smaller rocks on top while others prefer to layer smaller rocks at the bottom and build the wall using bigger volcanic rocks on top.

These volcanic rock walls are lovely to look at and provide a wonderful backdrop for gardens and swimming pools. They are pleasing to the eyes and unique in their own rights. You will need access to lava rocks in order to build one.

You can use volcanic rock walls for your house. They offer a beautiful alternative to old-fashioned cement and concrete. Some people build desert houses using lava rock as their foundation.

Volcanic rock walls are gaining popularity in mainstream architecture as they provide a wonderful alternative to boring old walls.

If you’re thinking about building volcanic rock walls, there are a myriad of options found online that you can use for your construction plans. I suggest you explore those options first before you start building your lava rock walls. Better yet, call us and we will build your volcanic rock walls for you at an affordable price.

Concrete Driveways (Exposed Aggregate, Polished or Brushed Finished)

Concrete Driveways are a favorite of both professional installers and homeowners alike. Concrete slabs are durable and strong and they require little to no maintenance. They last longer than other materials, which is why most people choose to build concrete driveways in their homes and offices.

Concrete is more expensive than asphalt and gravel – although it is definitely cheaper than using cobblestone, brick, or concrete pavers. Concrete outlasts these other materials, making it the more practical choice if you want longevity and cost cutting in the long run.

You have three choices for concrete use: exposed aggregate, polished, or brushed finished.

Also known as decorative concrete, exposed aggregate concrete uses natural stones from quarries and riverbeds that are hand-seeded into a concrete base. It’s durability and classy look makes exposed aggregate concrete the perfect choice for patios, pool decks, walkways, driveways, commercial entryways, etc.

Polished concrete is processed using a series of mechanically ground polishing or grinding steps similar to terrazzo production. Polished concrete is an eco-friendly, “green” flooring system that’s LEED approved.

Brushed finished concrete is a type of finish that is in contrast to finished concrete, which has a smooth finish. Although smooth finished concrete is standard, more and more builders now go for the brushed finished concrete finish.

Whichever you choose, we can do it for you.

Concrete Cutting and Removal

Concrete cutting and removal requires that the area is cleared of debris and other objects that may hinder movement of the people involved. Items that may be damaged by dust or concrete fragments need to be covered with protective sacks or mats.

You can cut and remove concrete yourself using a sledgehammer. However, you will need to be very careful as accidents may occur using power tools. You need to break down the concrete into smaller parts to be able to remove it. You also need to cut away steel reinforcements. After that, you will need to remove and dispose of the concrete that you have unearthed.

Cutting and removing concrete may require professional help as you need someone who knows how to handle the power tools needed to cut and remove said concrete. You will need to hire an expert to do this for you.

We provide this service for you at a low cost. We will cut and remove any concrete material that you wish to eliminate from your premises.

Paving and Soakage Capable Landscaping (To Accommodate Subsoil Drainage)

Pavements are outdoor floor or superficial surface covering. Paving materials include concrete, asphalt, stones like cobblestones, flagstone, and artificial stone, tiles, or bricks.

Landscape architecture categorizes pavements as part of the hardscape used on patios, road surfaces, courtyards, and sidewalks.

Soakage Capable Landscaping allows for the disposal of storm water through a private in-ground soakage system to be maintained by the property owner.

Soakage systems require an overland flow path that caters to the storm water overflow in accordance with the design standard requirements for soakage systems.

Paving and soakage capable landscaping is designed to accommodate subsoil drainage in your area.

We also provide paving services. All you have to do is ask.

Surface Water Management

Surface Water Management is designed to prevent surface water flooding, which occurs when heavy storms overwhelms your local drainage systems and capacity.

Surface water management requires coordinated action by people and groups who manage land, river, and drainage systems in your area.

This project investigates local flooding from drains, sewers, runoff from land, and groundwater during heavy rainstorms in your area.

Surface water flooding happens when rain brought about by heavy storms overwhelms your local drainage systems.

We provide surface water management as one of our services. You can count on us to help prevent flooding in your area by installing a drainage system that can handle surface water flooding.

As it happens, every job we complete requires some final touches, which include some of the services listed above. Our prices are extremely sharp and our finishing is exquisite!

Subsoil Solutions For Aucklanders

Since the deluge in 2017, Auckland’s problem with its ageing stormwater drainage pipes came to light. The city’s population growth, coupled with the rise of multi-unit blocks of flats, is putting too much strain on stormwater facilities.

While the Council is already building a multi-million dollar central interceptor to address Auckland’s water woes, many can be done on the private property owners’ part to help the situation. This includes improving their home’s drainage system to minimise runoff to the streets and prevent debris from funnelling into stormwater inlets. Silt and debris blockage was one of the major contributing factors to the massive flooding and damage in New Lynn during the storm.

Installing structures such as subsoil drainage can help to maintain flow conveyance and remove litter and excess sediments that block hotspot inlets during heavy rainfall events.

The problem with old pipes and clay

About 16,000 households or 2 per cent of Auckland’s wastewater network use combined stormwater and sewage pipes. Many of the pipes in older parts of the isthmus were installed a century ago and have not been replaced or “separated.” In heavy downpour, stormwater can easily overload the pipes and backflow into the sewage system.

The stormwater dilutes the wastewater. And when it overflows on private property, it does not only cause a smelly problem but also poses a bigger issue from a public safety perspective. This usually happens on parts of the network that weren’t separated. In some areas, like Hauraki Gulf Islands, there is no formal stormwater system and natural land drainage isn’t sufficient to deal with stormwater.

The problem is exacerbated by Auckland’s clay-dense soils formed under a warm and moist climate. Clay accumulations are particularly high in western suburbs and the inner city areas have soils.

Clay particles accumulate in the layer of the earth below the surface soil, hence called the subsoil. This layer is made up primarily of minerals and leached compounds, and lacks most of the organic elements and the rich soil fauna and flora found in the top soil. Clay has low-porosity and impedes the land’s natural ability to absorb and drain away stormwater.

So when the rain pours, stormwater tends to pond on low-lying areas around homes or run off to the roads, overloading the public wastewater infrastructure. If the flooding reaches the foundation of a house, it can compromise its structural integrity and safety.

This video shows the usual drainage problems that Aucklanders are facing.

What can be done?

The Auckland Council is in charge of stormwater management, but property owners are responsible for maintaining private stormwater assets that run to their property. These private stormwater assets include drains, catchpits, grates, pipes, roof gutters, rain gardens, permeable paving, ponds and soakage pits.

Soak hole repairs and inspections

Stormwater is typically directed to a soak hole rather than led directly to the stormwater network. In areas with no stormwater reticulation facilities, soak holes allow water to percolate to the ground.

Soak holes are basically manholes with boreholes ranging from 5 to 20 metres deep. Over time, soak holes get blocked by the silt, vegetation and litter they trap, and this can cause flooding. These devices require annual cleaning and maintenance, which can include flushing the bores, disposing the waste properly, and checking the inlet pipes.

Soak hole inspections may also be done at any time to ensure the device is functioning as it should and complies with the required health and safety standards.

Subsoil drainage

If your existing stormwater assets are not sufficient, consider incorporating a subsoil drainage system. It can be as simple as digging a trench and filling it with gravel or rock (called a French drain or weeping tile). Modern subsoil drainage uses a specialised perforated pipe covered with geotextile material, which is laid around the foundation or in low-lying areas within the property.

As well as minimising flood risk, installing an effective drainage system can give your property’s market value a boost. In fact, part of the process of property valuation is a thorough inspection from little things such as materials quality and efficiency wiring and plumbing, to general details like the location, the lot and the house itself.

Nobody wants to buy a house that gets flooded every time it rains. So things like upgrading old plumbing fixtures or installing an efficient drainage system are good investments with greater potential reward. Even if you don’t plan to sell, these projects can increase your quality of life and protect your home from costly water damage.

 

Hiring qualified and experienced drainlayers

Below are some of the important benefits of hiring an authorised drainlayer for the job:

  • Compliance. Drainlaying is generally a restricted work because it involves sanitary fixtures that concern public heath safety. There are also minimum requirements, specifications and standards to keep in mind when building subsoil drainage, especially for subdivision construction. For instance, the subsoil drainage must have a cesspit or holding pit before overflowing into an approved point of discharge. The pipes must also be laid deep enough into the subsoil, otherwise it will simply drain away the surface water and flooding will persist.
  • Real value for money. The right people will provide the right solution for your property. You get quality results that prevent expensive problems from recurring.
  • Professional insurance reports. A standard home insurance typically includes water damage cover. If you want to make a claim due to sewer backup, overflow and discharge, or flood, a licensed drainlayer can provide you with a detailed and professional insurance report to serve as proof. If you are taking out an insurance policy, a professionally written report for your new drainage system will increase your chances of getting coverage for drainage emergencies.

To learn more about subsoil drainage solutions in Auckland, talk to us.