Soakaway Crate Size Calculator
Here’s a general guide for the size of soakaway crates based on the roof area or impermeable surface area that they will be draining:
| Roof Area (or impermeable surface) | Soakaway Crate Size |
|---|---|
| Up to 50 square meters | 1 cubic meter |
| 50 – 100 square meters | 2 cubic meters |
| 100 – 150 square meters | 3 cubic meters |
| 150 – 200 square meters | 4 cubic meters |
| 200 – 250 square meters | 5 cubic meters |
| 250 – 300 square meters | 6 cubic meters |
| 300 – 400 square meters | 8 cubic meters |
| 400 – 500 square meters | 10 cubic meters |
Please note that these are general recommendations and it’s important to consider local regulations and soil conditions. Additionally, it’s advised to consult with a local engineer or relevant authorities for specific requirements in your area.
FAQs
How do I work out how many soakaway crates I need? To estimate the number of soakaway crates needed, calculate the total volume of water runoff from the roof or surface area, considering average rainfall. Divide this volume by the capacity of a single soakaway crate.
What is the 5m soakaway rule? The 5m soakaway rule suggests that a soakaway should be at least 5 meters away from a property to prevent potential damage to the foundations from excessive water absorption.
How deep should a soakaway crate be? The depth of a soakaway crate depends on factors like soil type and local regulations. As a general estimate, they are often installed at a depth of 1 to 1.5 meters.
What size is a standard soakaway? The size of a standard soakaway varies, but common dimensions for a single crate may be around 1 cubic meter. However, the total size depends on the calculated water runoff volume.
What are the building rules for a soakaway? Building rules for a soakaway may include complying with local regulations, ensuring the soakaway is a safe distance from structures, and following guidelines on sizing, depth, and materials.
What goes on top of soakaway crates? Typically, a geotextile membrane is placed on top of soakaway crates to prevent soil infiltration, followed by a layer of soil or turf for landscaping.
How far must a soakaway be from a house? A soakaway should be at least 5 meters away from a house to prevent potential damage to the property’s foundations.
Do I need building regulations for a soakaway? In many cases, you may need to comply with building regulations for a soakaway. Check with local authorities to ensure adherence to specific regulations in your area.
What to do when the soakaway is full? If a soakaway is full or not functioning properly, it may need professional inspection and maintenance. This can include cleaning, repairing, or even redesigning the soakaway system.
Do you put gravel in a soakaway crate? Yes, placing gravel around or inside the soakaway crate helps with drainage and filtration. It provides additional space for water to flow and prevents soil intrusion.
Do you fill soakaway crates? Soakaway crates are typically left unfilled to allow water to accumulate and gradually percolate into the surrounding soil.
Can a soakaway be less than 5m? A soakaway should ideally be at least 5 meters away from a property, but specific regulations may vary. Consult local authorities for precise distance requirements.
Can you put a soakaway in clay soil? Yes, soakaways can be installed in clay soil, but the design and sizing may need adjustments to accommodate the slower drainage properties of clay.
What does an old soakaway look like? An old soakaway may appear as a depression or pit in the ground covered with vegetation or filled with soil. It could also have a manhole cover or inspection chamber.
How much does it cost to install a soakaway? The cost of installing a soakaway varies based on factors like size, location, soil type, and local labor rates. Estimates can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
How deep can a soakaway be in the UK? In the UK, soakaways are often installed at a depth of 1 to 1.5 meters, but specific depths can vary based on soil conditions and local regulations.
Can you use gravel as a soakaway? Yes, gravel is commonly used in and around soakaways to facilitate drainage and prevent soil intrusion.
Can you plant on top of a soakaway? Yes, planting on top of a soakaway is possible. However, it’s crucial to choose plants that don’t have deep roots that could interfere with the soakaway system.
Where does the water from a soakaway go? Water from a soakaway percolates into the surrounding soil, allowing it to be naturally absorbed and dispersed.
How far should a soakaway be from a tree? Soakaways should be a safe distance from trees to prevent root interference. A general guideline is at least the height of the mature tree away.
Why do we put stones in a soakaway? Stones in a soakaway provide additional drainage space, preventing soil from entering and clogging the system while facilitating water movement.
Can a washing machine drain into a soakaway? Yes, a washing machine can drain into a soakaway, but it’s essential to check local regulations and ensure that the soakaway system can handle the additional water volume.
How do you know if a soakaway is blocked? Signs of a blocked soakaway include surface water pooling, slow drainage, unpleasant odors, or water backing up in drains. Professional inspection is advisable.
How deep is the soakaway test? A soakaway test typically involves digging a test pit to assess soil permeability. The depth may vary but often extends to the depth of the proposed soakaway.
Can I use bricks in a soakaway? Using bricks in a soakaway may impede water flow, and their use is not recommended. Materials like gravel or specialized soakaway crates are preferable.
Can a kitchen sink go to a soakaway? Kitchen sink wastewater can be directed to a soakaway, but grease traps may be needed to prevent the accumulation of grease and solids that could clog the system.
Do you need a soakaway for block paving? A soakaway may be required for block paving to manage surface water runoff effectively. Local regulations and planning requirements should be consulted.
Is there an alternative to a soakaway? Alternatives to soakaways include rain gardens, permeable paving, or connecting to a stormwater drainage system. The most suitable option depends on site conditions and local regulations.
How do you use a soakaway crate? Soakaway crates are placed in excavated pits, surrounded by gravel. They collect and temporarily store rainwater, allowing it to gradually percolate into the surrounding soil.
How much water does a soakaway crate hold? The capacity of a soakaway crate varies, but a standard crate may hold around 250-400 liters. The overall storage capacity depends on the number of crates used and their individual sizes.
Can pea gravel be used for a soakaway? Yes, pea gravel is commonly used for soakaways. Its small, rounded stones allow for good drainage and prevent soil intrusion.
What size of stone is used in a soakaway? The size of stone used in a soakaway is typically graded, with sizes ranging from 10mm to 40mm, to ensure effective water drainage.
Does pea gravel allow water to drain? Yes, pea gravel allows water to drain effectively due to its small and rounded nature, which creates space for water movement.
How deep should a soakaway crate be? The depth of a soakaway crate can vary, but it is commonly installed at a depth of 1 to 1.5 meters to promote efficient water percolation.
How long will a soakaway last? The lifespan of a soakaway depends on factors like design, construction, and maintenance. With proper care, a well-built soakaway can last for many years.