How Do Soakaways Prevent Flooding?

Preventing flooding is a key concern for homeowners, particularly with changes in the climate and increased rainfall across the UK. As the amount of rainfall continues to increase, so does the risk of flooding and now, more so than ever, effective drainage solutions are becoming essential to UK homes and businesses alike. Soakaways play a vital role in preventing flooding to properties by managing the removal of surface water. But how exactly soakaways prevent flooding? Lets dive into more detail.

What is a Soakaway?

A soakaway is a drainage system designed to absorb surface water into the ground at a slower rate. Using a network of pipes, gullies, guttering and drains, water is carried from rooftops, roads and ground level surfaces down into the soakaway where it is absorbed into the ground. Without a soakaway, water will collect on the surface and cause all types of issues.

Soakaways can come in different forms, such as gravel-filled pits, modular soakaway crates, or trench soakaways. Each type of soakaway is designed to provide a sustainable solution for managing surface water while protecting the surrounding environment.

Visit our comprehensive soakaway guide for more details on what a soakaway is.

Reducing Surface Water Runoff

In urban and developed areas, most surfaces are impermeable, meaning they don’t absorb rainwater. Instead, water runs off these surfaces and flows into drains, which can quickly become overwhelmed during periods of heavy rain. Excess water can then flood roads, streets, and properties.

Soakaways help to reduce surface water runoff by providing a place for rainwater to flow into and be absorbed into the ground. When a soakaway is installed, it temporarily stores water, allowing it to percolate through layers of soil over time. By doing so, it prevents the immediate rush of water into drainage systems, which helps to reduce the risk of flooding on your property and in the surrounding area.

Recharging Groundwater Supplies

When water is absorbed by the ground through a soakaway, it doesn’t just disappear. It often replenishes groundwater reserves, which are important for maintaining natural water levels and preventing dry spells in local ecosystems. By recharging the groundwater table, soakaways ensure a more sustainable water cycle, helping to balance the volume of surface water and groundwater.

In times of drought or low rainfall, having a system that recharges groundwater supplies is beneficial not only for the environment but also for maintaining the overall health of your local ecosystem. Groundwater is a vital resource, and soakaways help ensure that it remains at healthy levels.

Preventing Overloaded Drainage Systems

In most places, traditional drainage system are not equipped to handle high volumes of water from rainfall. Drainage systems, in most areas, are primarily for sewage water only. There can be some exceptions to this rule, such as major cities where soakaways might not be permitted. If a drainage system is used for rain water, it can lead to overflowing or flooding. Soakaways alleviate this problem by removing surface and excess water from the main drainage system.

Instead of sending all the water into the local sewer or drainage network, a soakaway absorbs a portion of the water, allowing the rest of the system to handle the remaining runoff. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas where the main drains may already be operating at full capacity.

Soakaways Slow the Flow of Water

Another benefit of installing a soakaway is flowing the flow of water. When rain falls at a significant rate, it can move quickly across surfaces. This can become dangerous or detrimental to surrounding landscape or properties. By installing a soakaway, it gives surface water a place to flow and gradually seep into the ground a ta much slower rate. This is a much safer way of managing surface water.

This slow absorption helps reduce the speed at which water travels through drainage systems, preventing surges in flow that can lead to blockages or overflow. Soakaways, therefore, act as a buffer, controlling the volume and speed of water before it reaches drains or rivers.

Reducing Localised Flooding

Soakaways are particularly effective in preventing localised flooding, which can occur in areas where water naturally collects, such as low-lying yards or gardens. Without a proper drainage system in place, these areas can quickly turn into ponds or flooded zones during heavy rainfall.

By installing a soakaway, water is directed into the ground before it has the chance to pool and flood the area. This means that you can keep your garden, driveway, or other parts of your property free from standing water, preventing the damage that can come from flooding.

Minimising Pollution and Erosion

In addition to preventing flooding, soakaways can also reduce the impact of water pollution and soil erosion. When surface water runs off directly into rivers, streams, or lakes, it can carry pollutants such as oil, chemicals, and debris. Soakaways naturally filter out many of these contaminants as the water passes through the gravel or soil, reducing the risk of pollution in the environment.

Furthermore, when large volumes of water rapidly run off, they can cause soil erosion, which damages landscapes and infrastructure. By allowing water to be absorbed into the ground gradually, soakaways help to prevent soil erosion and protect the integrity of the surrounding environment.

Adaptable and Sustainable Drainage Solution

Soakaways offer an environmentally friendly, sustainable solution to managing surface water. Unlike traditional drainage systems, which often involve complex infrastructure and connections to larger networks, soakaways work with natural processes to manage water. This makes them an ideal choice for homeowners and businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint while effectively managing rainwater.

They can also be customised to fit various land sizes and types, from residential gardens to larger commercial properties. Whether you’re dealing with a small area of standing water or larger drainage concerns, a soakaway can be adapted to fit your needs.

Conclusion

Soakaways are highly effective at managing surface water and runoff, reducing the burden on traditional drainage systems and providing a safe, environmentally friendly area for rainfall to be absorbed. Soakaways help with the replenishment of groundwater supplies and slow down the flow of water, minimising flood risks. Overall, soakaways are an excellent, environmentally friendly choice for surface water management without overwhelming sewage infrastructure.

If you’re dealing with persistent flooding or drainage issues on your property, a soakaway may be the perfect solution. Consult with a soakaway professional to discuss your needs and ensure your soakaway is designed and installed correctly to protect your property and the surrounding environment from the damaging effects of flooding.

Elite Drainage Services have vast experience in assessing and installing soakaways for both residential and commercial properties. Contact us today for more information and site visit.