Dealing with Excess Surface Water

Why is Surface Water a Problem?

The main problem is that by laying impermeable surfaces, such as concrete and tarmac, you will be restricting the natural draining of surface water which can lead to flooding.

This coupled with the growth in rainfall levels has led to greater chances of flooding, both on a large and low level scales.

In some areas of the UK, our ageing sewerage system can become overwhelmed very quickly, as it was not designed to accommodate the increasing levels of surface water it is now expected to carry. This has increased the low level flooding risk for many homes.

Just a little excess water can result in the growth of algae, moss and vegetation, while in the winter, ice could become a problem.

In the longer term just a little standing water could damage paving, cause damp in your home and even result in water seeping into your home and damaging your furniture.

How to Stop Pooling Surface Water

There are many solutions to these problems. The best way to avoid the problem of excess surface water is with forward planning when you intend to install paving, concrete or tarmac, to maintain the systems that are already in place.

Here are a few solutions to the problem of excess surface water:

Gradient Planning

The first step is to plan the gradient of the paving or tarmac to drain as quickly and efficiently as possible towards an adequate disposal point. Different surfaces drain better at different gradients, so seeking some professional advice is recommended.

Remember, when planning to lay paving or tarmac, surface water from it should not be directed to drain onto another property.

Installing a grille or gully

When planning outdoor drainage, the installation of a grille or gully is often a simple solution. This is also a good idea when a down pipe is draining onto a paved, tarmac or concrete surface.

A gully is often considered more aesthetically pleasing in paving, but a grille drain will be able to deal with a larger amount of excess water at once.

Attenuation Cells

Stormwater attenuation cells are ready made underground water reservoirs that can be placed underneath your paving or tarmac surface to deal with larger amounts of excess water arriving at once. Particularly useful if you’re in an area prone to excessive surface water that leads to flooding.

Upkeep of drains

To keep excess water to a minimum it is best to inspect and clear drains regularly. Foul drains take away the grey water from the household system. The paving or tarmac drains, depending on their age, may drain into these or into the storm drains.

A thorough inspection by a professional is the best way to check the integrity and condition of your surface water drainage system, ensuring it is fit to accommodate excess surface water.

If you think your drains aren’t coping as well as they should, call in the drainage professionals to take a look. A quick CCTV survey will determine whether you need repairs to restore full function.

Surface Drainage Experts to the Rescue

Get in touch with EDS drain specialists today for all surface water issues, including garden drainage solutions, patio gully drainage and more.