If you’re a homeowner or looking to build, you’ve probably come across the term “soakaway.” Understanding what a soakaway is and why it’s crucial for your property can save you a lot of trouble down the line. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about soakaways, their benefits, and why they should be an integral part of your home’s drainage system.
What is a Soakaway?
A soakaway is an underground structure designed to manage surface water, particularly rainwater, by allowing it to percolate back into the ground naturally. It’s essentially a pit filled with coarse gravel, rubble, or specially designed crates that create voids that allow water to slowly seep away into the surrounding soil. Soakaways are commonly used in domestic properties to manage runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impermeable surfaces.
Why do you need a soakaway?
Identifying pitch fibre drains can be tricky without professional help, but there are a few signs and steps you can take to determine if your home has them:
- Prevents Flooding and Waterlogging: Without an efficient drainage system, rainwater can quickly accumulate around your property, leading to waterlogging and even flooding. Soakaways help disperse this excess water into the ground, reducing the risk of standing water that can cause structural damage.
- Protects Your Foundation: Excess water around your home’s foundation can cause significant issues, including subsidence and dampness. A properly installed soakaway ensures that water is directed away from your foundation, protecting your home from these costly problems.
- Complies with Building Regulations: In many areas, local building regulations require effective surface water management to prevent overloading of the public drainage system. Installing a soakaway is often a requirement when building a new home or adding extensions that increase impermeable surfaces.
- Eco-Friendly Solution: Soakaways are an environmentally friendly way to manage surface water. By allowing water to return naturally to the water table, soakaways reduce the strain on public sewers and help maintain the natural water cycle.
- Cost-Effective Drainage Solution: Compared to other drainage systems, soakaways are relatively inexpensive to install and maintain. They don’t require connection to a main drainage system, which can save on long-term costs.
How to install a soakaway
Installing a soakaway involves digging a pit at least 5 meters away from your property to avoid affecting the foundation. The size of the pit depends on the amount of water you need to manage, which is typically calculated based on the surface area of your roof or driveway. The pit is then filled with gravel or crates and covered with a permeable membrane to prevent soil from clogging the voids. Finally, the pit is backfilled with soil, and the area is restored to its original condition.
Soakaway maintenance
While soakaways are generally low-maintenance, it’s essential to ensure that they are working efficiently. Over time, soakaways can become clogged with silt or debris, reducing their effectiveness. Regular inspections and clearing out any blockages will help maintain their performance. It’s also wise to check that the downpipes and gutters leading to the soakaway are free from leaves and debris.
Signs you might need a soakaway
- Persistent Puddles or Waterlogging: If water tends to collect around your property after heavy rain, a soakaway might be necessary.
- Foundation Issues: Dampness or cracking around your home’s foundation could be a sign that excess water is not being managed properly.
- Overflowing Gutters: If your gutters frequently overflow, it could indicate that the current drainage system is inadequate.
A soakaway is more than just a hole in the ground—it’s a vital component of an effective drainage system that protects your home from water damage, complies with building regulations, and supports the environment. Whether you’re building a new home, extending your current one, or simply looking to improve your property’s drainage, installing a soakaway is a smart, long-term solution.
Whether you have inquiries about our services, need a free quote, or want to discuss a particular project, simply contact us today, and we’ll resolve your drainage concerns!
