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Understanding the Installation Process of Concrete Soakwells

By Louis Koen

The decision to install a concrete soakwell system is a significant step towards safeguarding your home and enhancing the longevity of your beautiful landscape. However, the process of installation can seem mysterious to many. Today, we’ll take you on a behind-the-scenes tour of how we at Swell Irrigation install concrete soakwells, offering you a glimpse into the methodical and meticulous process that ensures your property enjoys top-notch drainage for years to come.

Understanding Concrete Soakwells

To appreciate the installation process, it’s helpful to understand what concrete soakwells are. These underground tanks collect and slowly disperse stormwater or runoff into the surrounding soil. They are the unsung heroes in our fight against waterlogging and erosion, particularly essential given our diverse Australian climate.

Step 1: Assessment and Planning

Each property is unique, with varying factors such as size, location, soil type, and the local climate. Before we dig a single hole, our team conducts a comprehensive assessment of these factors. We calculate the optimal size and number of soakwells required based on roof area, average rainfall, and soil drainage capacity. The objective is to tailor a system that efficiently handles typical water volume while also having enough capacity to deal with those heavy downpours we sometimes experience

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Step 2: Designing the Soakwell System

Once we’ve got a solid understanding of your property’s unique requirements, we move onto designing the soakwell system. This step involves determining the ideal location for the soakwells, ensuring they are conveniently placed to receive water from downpipes and other hard surfaces, but also safely distanced from buildings to avoid any potential structural complications. We also carefully plan how to connect soakwells to downpipes and stormwater systems.

Step 3: Excavating the Holes

With a clear plan in hand, it’s time to start the physical work. We use specialised equipment to excavate holes in the pre-determined locations. The depth and width of these holes are precisely calculated to accommodate the soakwell tanks and the necessary backfill.

Step 4: Installing the Soakwell Tanks

Each concrete soakwell tank is carefully placed into its respective hole. We check for accurate positioning and alignment with the broader drainage network. These tanks are robust and durable, designed to withstand the weight of the soil and water they’ll soon be managing.

Step 5: Connecting the Soakwell to the Drainage System

Once the soakwells are securely in place, we begin the process of connecting them to the downpipes or stormwater systems. This connection involves installing PVC pipes or channels that effectively direct water into the soakwells. We take great care to ensure secure and efficient connections, preventing potential leaks or blockages.

Step 6: Backfilling

With the soakwell in place and connected to the drainage network, the surrounding hole is backfilled with a specific type of aggregate that allows for optimum water absorption. It’s crucial to use the right type and quantity of backfill to ensure a stable environment around the soakwell and facilitate proper water dispersion.

Step 7: Final Checks and Clean Up

The final step is to conduct thorough checks to ensure everything is correctly installed and functioning as it should. We also tidy up the work area, leaving your property as neat and clean as we found it.

After Installation Care

Properly installed concrete soakwells require minimal maintenance and can last for over 50 years. However, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your drainage performance, particularly after heavy rain. Signs such as water pooling or slow draining can indicate potential issues that may need attention.

Understanding the installation process can help demystify what goes on beneath the surface of your garden or driveway. At Swell Irrigation, we take pride in our meticulous, professional approach to soakwell installation. We know that attention to detail and a focus on quality can make the difference between a soakwell system that does an adequate job and one that performs exceptionally for many decades.

Concrete soakwell installation isn’t just a process – it’s an investment in your property’s future health and beauty. If you’re considering this important step, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’re always here to offer advice, conduct assessments, or handle your complete installation process.

Here’s to the unseen heroes of our landscapes – the concrete soakwells – and to the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve made a wise investment in your property’s long-term well-being.