Soakwells play an important role in managing stormwater runoff, safeguarding your property from water damage, and ensuring efficient drainage. Just like any other system, soakwells require regular maintenance to function properly. In this guide, we will see why soakwell maintenance is important.

Why is Soakwell Maintenance Important?

Soakwells collect stormwater and distribute it into the ground, preventing water pooling, flooding, and soil erosion. Over the time period, debris, sediment, and tree roots can block the soakwell, reducing its efficiency. Regular maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but also extends the lifespan of your soakwell.

Common Soakwell Issues

  1. Blockage

    2. Dirt and debris can get accumulated in the soakwell, leading to clogs that can prevent water from draining effectively.

  2. Sediment Buildup:

    3. Over time, fine particles can settle at the bottom of the soakwell, reducing its capacity.

  3. Structural Damage

    4. Cracks or leaks in the walls of the soakwell can lead to reduced efficiency and water
    seepage in unwanted areas.

  4. Growing of Tree Roots

    5. Root from nearby trees can grow inside the soakwell, disrupting the flow of water and causing long-term damage.

Steps to Maintain Soakwell Effectively

  1. Check for any defects on a regular basis

    2. Regular inspection of your soakwell at every 6-12 months interval is extremely crucial, especially before the rainy season. Looks for signs of water pooling, slow drainage, or structural damage.

  2. Clean the soakwell properly

    3. Clearing leaves, branches, dirt, and debris from gutters and downpipes connected to the soakwell, helps in reducing the risk of blockages.

  3. Flushing the system

    4. Using a high pressure hose to flush out sediment and debris from the soakwell. This restores its capacity and ensures efficient water flow.

  4. Checking for damage

    5. Properly check the soakwell for any cracks, leaks, or signs of wear and tear. Addressing these minor issues at an early stage can help us prevent bigger problems later.

  5. Managing the tree roots

    6. If your soakwell is near trees, regularly check for root development. The best way to prevent this is by installing root barriers.

When to Call up a Professional?

While basic maintenance can be done by yourself, some situations require professional expertise, such as:

  • Persistent Blockage

    • If accumulated dirt, debris, or sediment cannot be removed using simple methods, a professional can use a specialised tool to resolve the issue.

  • Structural Repairs

    • Certain cracks or leaks in the soakwell may need experts for repair or replacement to restore full functionality.

  • Tree Root Damage

    • Professionals can remove the stubborn roots and assess the long-term impact on your soakwell.

  • System Upgrade

    • If your property frequently experiences flooding or poor drainage, consider upgrading to larger or more efficient soakwells.

Preventative Measures

  1. Install Gutter Guards

    2. Gutter Guards helps in prevention of leaves and debris from entering downpipes and soakwells.

  2. Regular Cleaning

    3. Keep your gutters, downpipes, and soakwells covers clean to reduce dirt accumulation.

  3. Monitor nearby vegetation

    4. Avoid planting shrubs or trees close to your soakwells to minimise root development.

  4. Schedule Professional Checking

    5. Try to schedule professional checks to ensure your system is working efficiently and detect potential risks that can cause significant damage.

Benefits of Proper Maintenance

  • Enhanced Efficiency

    • Regular maintenance ensures your soakwell operates at its best, even during heavy rainfall.

  • Longer Lifespan

    • Well-maintained soakwells last longer, saving you money on replacements.

  • Property Maintenance

    • Proper drainage system prevents water damage to your foundation, landscaping, and structures.

  • Environmental benefits

    • Efficient soakwells reduce surface runoff, promoting groundwater recharge and eco-friendly stormwater management.

Conclusion

Soakwell maintenance is essential for protecting your property and ensuring efficient stormwater management. With routine checks, cleaning, and proper maintenance by professionals when needed, you can keep your soakwells in excellent conditions for years to come.
At Rockingham Turf and Reticulation, our experienced team of professionals can handle all your issues and provide immediate solutions. Contact us today for soakwell installation and maintenance services.