Frederick Jace
You’ve probably heard of ‘soakaway crates’ before, but how much do you really know about them?
Let’s take a look at what they are, when they can be used and how you can benefit from using them. We’ll also be offering tips for buying soakaway crates online, so read on to find out more.
What is a soakaway crate?
A soakaway crate is a plastic crate that allows water to seep through soil, instead of building up or putting increased pressure on drainage systems.
These cube-shaped crates are modular and can be stacked on top of, and next to each other, ensuring stability whilst allowing water to percolate through to the soil.
A soakaway crate’s plastic framework delays the passage of water into the soil which, in turn, prevents the ground from becoming overly saturated.
What are soakaway crates used for?
As the amount of impermeable surfaces increases in urban areas, and drainage systems are put under more pressure, the need for effective water management is key – and that’s where soakaway crates come in handy.
Soakaway crates are buried beneath the ground to manage surface water and act as part of a full drainage system in areas that receive intense rainfall. They provide an alternative route for surface water (collected via guttering, downpipes and gullies), ensuring it infiltrates into the ground at a steadier rate. This ultimately reduces the risk of flooding.
These crates are typically found in open spaces that struggle to keep up with the demand for efficient surface water drainage (i.e. gardens and car parks).
According to Building Regulations Part H3, they must be at least 5m away from the nearest building or road, and 2.5m from boundaries.
Why should you use soakaway crates?
There are countless reasons why you should consider using soakaway crates – here are just a few.
· Time-saving
In times gone by, soakaways were created by excavating the land where the drainage pipe ends, and filling it with rubble. Once you factor in the transportation of rubble, digging a hole and unloading the gravel into the trench, this is a time-consuming process.
Soakaway crates are lightweight and usually come flat-packed, which makes them easier and quicker to transport and install. They simply clip together with clips or cable ties.
· Long-term solution
Sediment would get washed into traditional soakaways and pile up amongst the rubble – stopping water from filtering through and offering a short-term solution for surface water drainage.
Unlike conventional methods, modern-day soakaway crates provide a much longer-term solution to standing water. They have been specifically designed to take water away from sewers and prevent sediment from building up – providing surface run-off with an alternative pathway to reach the ground and infiltrate.
· Durable
There are various types of soakaway crates on the market today, including crates that are suitable for heavy traffic or lorry loading.
Wherever you need to install soakaway crates, you can trust they are extremely sturdy and will withstand the weight from above. They won’t compress over time, so you needn’t worry about the functionality of your crates reducing.
· Minimal maintenance
Contrary to popular belief, soakaway crates are straightforward to maintain and should only need replacing approximately once every 10-15 years.
You need to make sure the area is kept clear of vegetation, to ensure roots don’t interfere with the soakaway, and any blockages will need to be removed with a jet wash. But that’s usually all it takes to keep your crates in tip-top condition!
Ready to buy and install soakaway crates?
If you’re looking to purchase soakaway crates, be sure to check out the extensive range available online at Build Plumb Plastics.
They supply modular crates from renowned brands, including Polypipe and Brett Martin, accommodating the needs of residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural clients. On top of this, you’ll discover a variety of accessories, including catchpits, adaptors, silt traps and geotextile membrane.
All of BP Plastics’ soakaway crates are of exceptional quality and are quick and easy to install. They’re also priced competitively and delivered quickly (free of charge when you spend over £100!).
Get in touch
If you have any questions about soakaway crates, or you’d like to know more about the benefits of using these modular storage cells, don’t hesitate to contact the team at BP Plastics. They’re always on hand to help and will happily share their expertise.
Either give them a call on 01255 258 525 or fill out their online enquiry form for a rapid response.
