Where Does All the Rainwater Go?

When you build a new extension, conservatory, or driveway, you create a large, waterproof surface. When it rains, that water has to go somewhere. You cannot simply pipe it into the foul sewer (the one that carries toilet waste) as this overwhelms the treatment plants. Instead, you often need to deal with the water on your own land using a soakaway.

At Ardent Utilities, we design and install efficient soakaway installation systems to manage surface water drainage effectively.

What is a Soakaway?

A soakaway is essentially a hole dug in the ground, filled with a structure that allows water to collect and then slowly "soak away" into the surrounding soil. It acts as a temporary storage tank during a storm, releasing the water gradually back into the earth.

Traditional vs. Modern

• Old Style: Traditionally, builders just dug a pit and filled it with rubble or broken bricks. These often clog up with silt over time and stop working.

• Modern Style: We use "soakaway crates"—strong plastic geocellular crates that look like milk crates. These create a huge void space (95% empty) to hold water, wrapped in a geotextile membrane to stop soil entering and blocking the system. They are far more efficient and durable.

The Percolation Test

Before we dig, we must prove the ground can handle the water. We perform a percolation test:

1. Dig a trial pit.

2. Fill it with water.

3. Time how long it takes to drain. If the water sits there for days (e.g., in heavy clay soil), a soakaway won't work, and we will need to find an alternative solution.

Prevent Flooding

A correctly sized soakaway prevents your patio from turning into a swimming pool and stops water from pooling against your house foundations, which can cause damp.

Manage Your Storm Water

Keep your property dry and compliant with planning rules. Contact Ardent Utilities for a surface water assessment.