What is a Soakway in a Domestic Drainage System?

These are essential components necessary for domestic drainage systems. They manage excess water underground, preventing situations of waterlogging and flooding. In a residential drainage system, the soakway is a component that helps divert rainwater away from impermeable surfaces, such as roofs and driveways. Soakways are underground reservoirs for water storage and the infiltration process. When a soakaway is present in a domestic drainage system, it helps regulate surface water and reduces the risk of flooding. Hence, with a soakway in the property, your garden will remain dry and protected even during heavy rainfall. For drainage services of drainage Burton on Trent, contact professionals.

How does that Soakway work?

Soakways are structures attached to the drain where rainwater is collected from downpipes or surface drains and directed into an underground chamber or pit. Once the soakway is installed in the drain, the water will slowly infiltrate into the nearby soil. The water is then absorbed and dispersed throughout the body. If a soakaway is present in the domestic drainage system, then it minimises surface water run off on porous materials such as gravel or stone.

What are the types of domestic drainage soakways?

Infiltration soakways

These soakaways are designed to let the water seep into the surrounding soil gradually. The water seeps inside through porous materials such as gravel or stone. This is ideal, especially for properties with permeable soil conditions. Again, if there is adequate space in the surrounding ground and soil for water absorption, then this type of soakway is useful.

Percolation soakaways

These soakways use specialised drainage crates or chambers that control the movement of water inside the surface of the ground. These are modular systems that offer versatile designs, making them suitable for all types of soil and site conditions. Percolation soakaways are effective, particularly in areas where space is limited and groundwater levels are high. 

What are the benefits of using soakways?

They help mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall or snowfall by capturing excess water underground. It also helps reduce surface water runoff. The primary purpose of these soakaways is to prevent excessive flooding. It also supports sustainable water management practices that contribute to the comprehensive protection of the natural environment. 

Again, if soakaways are present in the domestic drainage system, they help maintain soil structure and fertility. It also helps in promoting healthy plant growth and reduces the need for soil irrigation. 

How to maintain domestic drainage soakways?

Regular cleaning 

To keep the soakways clean, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection regularly and clean them to remove blockages and sediment buildup. Sometimes you will find vegetation and debris stuck in the system. By flushing the same, the obstructions will be removed and the soakway will be cleaned thoroughly.

Repair common damages

Some common issues, such as blockages, sedimentation, and groundwater contamination, should be addressed so that the soakway functions effectively. By promptly addressing these issues and implementing corrective measures, homeowners can prevent costly repairs. This ensures long-term reliability. 

For expert drainage solutions, contact D. McCarthy Brothers (Lichfield) Ltd. We can help you with a range of drainage solutions.