The Brew Cabin

I have an area of pavement which needs to be re-surfaced as I have a problem with rain water leaking into the cellar. There is currently a cobbled pavement which sloops slightly towards the terrace house to a drain. The water flows very slowly to this drain, and seems to disappear before reaching the drain.

I would like to get a quote for the work which would need to be carried out. Should I replace the cobbles with new block paving or re-lay the existing cobles? Perhaps an extra drainage gully is needed? Any advice gratefully received!

I live in Levenshulme, Manchester M19. Could you help? Is there someone local you could recommend?

I have never undertaken a job like this would it be easy for me to do if I can't find a builder to do it?

If groundwater is leaking into your cellar, it suggests the cellar itself needs remedial work over and above whatever needs doing with the paving itself.

You say the paving is 'cobbles'. Is it really cobbles, or is it setts? I can't think of anyone over that side of Manchester that undertakes sett/cobble work, but there are umptillions of so-called Block Paving Specialists, some of whom may be able to take on this type of work.

While not being familiar with the job, I'd guess that stripping out the cobbles/setts and replacing with concrete block paving would probably work out cheaper than relaying what you have. Just how feasible it would be to DIY depends on how fit and competent you feel yourself to be, and the size of the area. DIY block laying is much easier than DIY setts/cobbles.

I have just had an appointment with Trace Water Systems who are suggesting laying drainage pipes around the edges of the cellar to collect the water & then pump it out. Also laying a plastic floor & chip board over the existing floor.

What remedial work would you see as appropriate in the cellar?

Yes the paving could be setts, there is a lot of concrete over them. The house was built in 1900.

Here is a sketch of the house!
<img src=http://www.happybuddha.net/leak.gif>

Do you have any other ideas for solutions?

I wouldn't be happy with installing a drain within the cellar - this only ameliorates the problem once the water has found its way in. A better solution would prevent the water getting in in the first place.

I'd get another builder in to have a look and see what they have to say before committing to one option or t'other. I can't say what the best option would be, without seeing the site for myself, but a cellar drain would be my last resort.

Remember that these companies are more interested in flogging their so-called solution rather than finding the best solution for your property. That's why it's important to take more than one opinion.