Restoration & Refurbishment

Outside drainage trench to divert water away from listed building wall to allow wall to breathe

Anonymous user 09/03/2024 - 2.55 PM

Hi, I am looking for advice on the best sort of drainage trench to install where the outside ground level is too high against the property walls, to allow the walls to dry out and breathe. I was advised by SPAB and Historic England that where old properties are concerned extra care must be taken as a badly installed trench can cause more problems, eg holding damp against the wall if the water has nowhere to drain to,(we are on clay), or if incorrect materials, gradient or dimensions are used. Also the wall could dry out too quickly or the foundations could be affected. As this is not as straightforward as I first thought and also the fact that the trench would be in my neighbours' garden, as it is their ground level that is high so I would not be able to monitor or maintain it, I would greatly appreciate any advice so that this damp issue can be resolved once and for all without further problems. Many thanks.