When it comes to stormwater management, soakwells are crucial for absorbing runoff securely into the ground and protecting against flooding and other water-related problems.
If you are a homeowner or property manager, knowing how long soakwells last will help you plan for repairs or replacements. How long a soak well lasts is highly dependent on several variables, including the material used to construct it, the skill of the installer, and the local climate.
This article will discuss the typical lifespan of various soakwell materials, such as plastic, concrete, and polypropylene, and offer advice on how to make them last as long as possible.
How Long Do Soakwells Last?
The lifespan of soakwells can vary depending on several factors, including the material they are made from, the quality of installation, and the soil conditions where they are installed. Here is a general overview:
- Plastic Soakwells: These are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and can last anywhere from 15 to 25 years or more. They are resistant to corrosion and chemical damage but can be affected by UV exposure if not properly covered.
- Concrete Soakwells: These are more durable and can last 50 years or more if they are of good quality and properly maintained. They are strong and can handle heavy loads, making them suitable for driveways and areas with heavy traffic.
- Polypropylene Soakwells: These newer types of soakwells are lightweight and easy to install. They can last around 25 years or more, similar to plastic soakwells, depending on the specific product and installation conditions.
Regular maintenance, such as clearing debris and ensuring proper drainage, can help extend the lifespan of any soakwell. Proper installation is also crucial for longevity, as poor installation can lead to premature failure.
Are Plastic Soakwells Any Good?
Yes, plastic soakwells can be a good choice for many applications. Here are some reasons why plastic soak wells are beneficial:
Advantages Of Plastic Soakwells
Durability
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): Plastic soakwells are typically made from HDPE, which is known for its durability and resistance to chemicals and corrosion.
- Longevity: They can last between 15 to 25 years or more, especially when properly installed and maintained.
Lightweight
- Ease of Handling: Plastic soakwells are much lighter than their concrete counterparts, making them easier to transport, handle, and install without heavy machinery.
- DIY Friendly: Their lightweight nature makes them suitable for DIY installations.
Cost-Effective
- Lower Installation Costs: Due to their lighter weight, installation costs are generally lower as there is less need for specialized equipment and labour.
- Affordability: They are often more affordable than concrete soakwells, making them a cost-effective solution for stormwater management.
Design Flexibility
- Variety of Sizes and Shapes: Plastic soakwells come in various sizes and shapes, allowing for greater flexibility in design and installation to meet specific site requirements.
Resistance to UV and Chemicals
- UV Stabilized: Many plastic soakwells are UV stabilized, reducing the risk of degradation from sunlight exposure if not buried deeply.
- Chemical Resistance: They are resistant to many chemicals, reducing the risk of damage from substances commonly found in soil and stormwater.
Considerations For Plastic Soakwells
Weight-Bearing Capacity
- Load Limitations: While suitable for many residential applications, plastic soakwells may not be as robust as concrete ones for heavy traffic areas like driveways unless properly reinforced or designed for such use.
Installation
- Proper Installation Needed: Correct installation is crucial to ensure longevity and effectiveness. This includes proper burial depth, correct backfilling, and ensuring adequate drainage.
Environmental Conditions
- Soil and Water Table: The local soil conditions and water table levels can affect the performance and lifespan of plastic soakwells. It’s essential to consider these factors during planning and installation.
Plastic soakwells can be a highly effective and economical solution for managing stormwater in residential and light commercial applications. Their durability, ease of installation, and cost benefits make them a popular choice for many property owners.
However, it’s essential to ensure proper installation and consider the specific requirements of your site to maximize its performance and lifespan.
What Is The Purpose Of A Soakwell?
The purpose of a soakwell is to manage and dispose of stormwater runoff effectively. Here are the key functions and benefits of a soak well:
Primary Purpose
- Stormwater Management:
- Water Collection: Soakwells collect and store stormwater runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impervious surfaces.
- Water Infiltration: They facilitate the slow release of stored water into the surrounding soil, allowing it to percolate naturally and recharge groundwater.
Key Benefits
Flood Prevention
- Reduced Surface Runoff: By capturing and infiltrating stormwater, soakwells help reduce the volume and speed of surface runoff, minimising the risk of localised flooding.
Soil Erosion Control
- Erosion Mitigation: Properly managed stormwater prevents soil erosion by controlling the flow of water and reducing its erosive force on landscapes and structures.
Infrastructure Protection
- Foundation Preservation: Soakwells help prevent water from pooling around building foundations, reducing the risk of structural damage due to water seepage and soil saturation.
- Pavement Protection: They prevent water accumulation on driveways and pathways, which can lead to cracks and other forms of damage.
Environmental Benefits
- Groundwater Recharge: By allowing water to percolate into the soil, soakwells contribute to the replenishment of local groundwater supplies.
- Reduced Pollutants: They help filter pollutants from stormwater runoff before it infiltrates the ground, improving water quality.
Compliance with Regulations
- Building Codes: Many regions have building codes and regulations that require proper stormwater management systems, including soakwells, to be installed in new developments and renovations.
Aesthetic and Practical Advantages
- Discreet Solution: Soakwells are typically installed underground, making them a discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution for managing stormwater.
- Versatility: They can be used in various settings, from residential properties to commercial developments, adapting to different site conditions and requirements.
Soakwells are an essential component of stormwater management systems, providing a reliable method for capturing, storing, and infiltrating stormwater runoff. By preventing flooding, controlling erosion, protecting infrastructure, and benefiting the environment, soakwells play a crucial role in sustainable water management practices.
Conclusion
An integral part of efficient stormwater management is the use of soakwells, which absorb, hold, and progressively infiltrate precipitation into the soil around them. Property and infrastructure are safeguarded by soakwells because they decrease surface runoff, avoid flooding, and manage soil erosion.
In addition to filtering contaminants, they help recharge groundwater and enhance water quality. Residential and commercial structures alike can benefit from installing and maintaining soakwells properly. They enhance the sustainability and functionality of any facility.
The importance of soakwells is already high, and it will only grow as a result of the increased frequency of severe weather events caused by climate change. They lessen the load on urban drainage systems by decreasing the impact of stormwater surges and severe rainfall. In addition to protecting individual houses, this preventative method of stormwater management strengthens metropolitan regions as a whole.
It is highly recommended that property owners invest in high-quality soakwells and make sure to install and maintain them properly. Doing so will help you manage stormwater, prevent water damage to your property, and promote environmental sustainability.
Having a soakwell system that works properly can provide you peace of mind and help the environment in the long term, which is more valuable than the money you spend on it.
Are you looking for more information? Visit the plastic soakwells installation, today!