Dpc in a gravel driveway and contractor advice - Bridged damp proof course, contractors

[Wiggo]

Hi,

The entire front of my house is surrounded by gravel. We had some rendering replaced recently (poor guttering, lesson learned ). When this was done we noticed that our DPC was just below ground level (we have some relatively minor damp issues compared to some). Successive owners have added gravel to the drive, and below the top clean 50mm is a heavy mix of mud (clay) and gravel.I don't think I've got much scope to lower ground level as I don't think it will work with levels in the drive, plus I have burried services passing though the wall at about 150mm. To improve situation I'd thought about digging a channel (200mm) deep around the house and filling with clean gravel (of which grade?).

Any thoughts appreciated? DIY botch? Where layout allows, would the addition of a half-perforated pipe (acting as a collector), connected to existing surface water system, help?

Also, I have another drainage issue on approach road which is beyond scope of DIYer. Anyone recommend knowledgeable contractor in south east of Scotland?


Thanks

[Carberry]

Some photos would help. In the mean time read here about land drainage:
http://www.pavingexpert.com/drain03.htm

And draining for pavements here:
http://www.pavingexpert.com/drain01.htm

Where in SE Scotland are you?

[Wiggo]

thanks for reply and links. I'll post photo later today, we are 15 miles due south of Edinburgh

[Carberry]

Sounds like you're not far from me, my yard is in Millerhill. If you want me to come out and have a look at it then give me a call on 07825 705 066.