After 20+ years working on plumbing systems in Drummoyne, I’ve learned that the biggest plumbing problems are usually invisible. A blocked toilet is easy to spot, as is a dripping tap. The expensive problems are hidden behind the wall, lurking beneath the ground, or brewing in a stormwater system set to overflow in the next Sydney downpour.
Here’s my expert insight into Drummoyne’s most common plumbing problems.
Common Plumbing Problems in Drummoyne Homes
Situated between Five Dock Bay and Iron Cove, three sides of Drummoyne are surrounded by the Parramatta River. The inner-west suburb’s peninsula location means homes here are susceptible to unique plumbing challenges not typically seen in inland suburbs. This, coupled with other geographical features of the suburb, helps explain why the following plumbing problems are common in Drummoyne.
Waterfront Exposure
Drummoyne homes closest to the water can be affected by salty air, sea spray, and high humidity. This can cause guttering and downpipes to deteriorate at a faster rate, leaving a home more vulnerable to water damage, especially during heavy rain.
Book a roofwater drainage system inspection to ensure your home is adequately protected.
Stormwater Drainage
Understanding the relationship between overland flow path and stormwater pipes, pits, gutters, and downpipes is one of the most important considerations for Drummoyne homeowners. The City of Canada Bay has a history of overland flooding due to excess rainfall runoff, and this is typically a result of ineffective underground drainage. Local council have previously conducted upgrades to aging stormwater infrastructure to deal with flooding issues, including at the intersection of Tranmere Street and Polding Street.
Just like public drainage systems require updating to deal with increased demand and changing weather patterns, homeowners should ensure their private stormwater system is up to scratch, too.
Joe’s Drummoyne Plumbing Insight: Many Drummoyne properties are on a sloping block, so it’s common to find a stormwater pump onsite. If backyard drainage is an ongoing issue, arrange an inspection to determine if pump installation could help resolve it.
Old Pipes and Trees Root Intrusion
Tree roots can contribute to complex underground plumbing issues, and properties with aged clay pipes are most susceptible. Many older homes, including Drummoyne’s harbourside properties, are surrounded by large, established trees with extensive root systems. The roots of Gum, Paperbark, Brush Box, Jacaranda and Fig trees can infiltrate damaged pipes, leading to slow drainage, recurring blockages, disconnected pipe joints, and even pipe collapse.
A CCTV drain inspection is the best way to identify the cause of drainage issues and resolve them for good.
Joe’s Drummoyne Plumbing Insight: The inground piping around Drummoyne is all terracotta that’s leaking and attracting tree roots. Fragile terracotta piping regularly has to be cleared, repaired or replaced. If we are fortunate and the damage is not too bad, we can use no-dig pipe relining to repair the cracked pipework. Wherever possible, we’ll avoid destructive excavation, which is ideal for Drummoyne homeowners with established gardens and expensive landscaping.
More Key Insights From a Drummoyne Plumber
Older Homes: Drummoyne has a lot of older apartments and Federation homes which require the expertise of experienced plumbers. Unfortunately, many newer generation plumbers don’t know how to problem-solve in these older buildings. They lack training in soft soldering and brazing, which are needed when working on copper gas piping, water lines, and downpipes. Choose a Drummoyne plumber with proven experience working on older properties to ensure your repairs are efficient and long-lasting.
Cross-Boundary Issues: Multi-dwelling terraces built in the older areas of Drummoyne often have complicated cross-boundary plumbing issues, including shared sewer lines and pipework from one home running beneath neighbouring properties. This can lead to complications when renovating and cause disputes about who is responsible for plumbing repairs. A CCTV inspection can clarify the exact location of a drainage problem, but be prepared to communicate with your neighbours about access for repairs and who pays for what.
Advice to Drummoyne Homeowners
As long as the toilets are flushing and the sink is draining, it’s easy to take your plumbing for granted. However, preventative maintenance is the best way to protect yourself from future plumbing emergencies. The experienced team at Gladesville Plumbing can identify issues early and provide expert solutions for effective, long-lasting results.