What is a Soakwell?

Home ownership is rewarding, both emotionally and financially, but it can also be fraught with complications and confusion. Homeowners don't have to be experts with an in-depth knowledge of every system on their property, but they do need to have a basic understanding of what those systems are and how they affect a property. A soakwell can be an integral part of a drainage and anti-erosion system, and may also be a legal requirement in some areas of Australia. Depending on where your property is located, you may be required by law to prevent excess rainwater from flowing into public property or those of your neighbours. A soakwell system isn't the only method of complying with such laws, but it can be one of the most effective.

How a Soakwell Works
When rain falls on an undeveloped property, it's evenly distributed across the soil, where it will later disperse. The introduction of non-porous structures like roofing, foundations and paving prevents the even dispersal of rain, which leaves the bare soil around those structures to absorb much more water than it would in their absence. This can contribute significantly to problems like soil erosion and flooding while also presenting a risk of foundation damage.

Soakwell installation is one of the most commonly relied-upon methods of preventing water damage related to flooding. Soakwells work by collecting rainwater diverted through pipes and dispersing it into the soil. They're installed underground, and come in a variety of sizes. Choosing the right size, burial depth and placement is crucial to peak performance, so it's typically best to work with a professional builder for best results.

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