Blocked Soakaway in Wolverhampton

Soakaways are deep holes in the ground usually filled with gravel or rubble. More modern systems utilise crates.

Rainwater runs into the Soakaway and fills the cavities between the infill material, this water is then gradually absorbed into the surrounding ground.  

For the Soakaway to work efficiently and over a prolonged period of time, the water going in should be clean and free of debris such as leaves and moss which cause restriction and blockages and can result in the soakaway having to be dug out and renewed. It is possible to fit a filter to the rainwater system to prevent the entry of debris.    

A wastewater soakaway is the section of a drainage system that follows from a septic tank or sewage treatment plant. The purpose of a soakaway is to allow the liquid waste that has left the septic tank to percolate through the soils surrounding the pipework – the soakaway pipework is often perforated or slotted to enable this to happen.  

If your Soakaway is blocked call John direct on 07768 297435.

SOAKAWAY CRATE SYSTEMS

Soakaway crate systems are more effective than rubble filled pits. A percolation test should first be performed on the soil to determine the ground conditions and the roof that will discharge to it measured, for the number of crates required to be calculated. 

Permission from the local authority may be required for installation of the system.

The crates which look like milk crates are lowered into the ground to provide a void, they are extremely tough and can carry a considerable load, several types are available for different applications.  

The crates are wrapped in geotextile membrane and surrounded by pea shingle to allow water in and out. If you are considering having a Soakaway crate system installed call John on 01902 762274

Soakaway Problems

BLOCKED SOAKAWAYS

If soakaways are  restricted or blocked, excessive rainfall can lead to     

•overflowing gullies          

 •damp walls  

•Localised flooding to drives and patios.  

•Flooded cellars.        

One of the main problems with investigating a suspected failed soakaway is finding it, we have known people guess and dig for days, with just backache to show for it, a far quicker way is with the use of electronic drain tracing. If you have a problem with your Soakaway call John on 01902 762274 or 07768 297435.