Soakaways and Permeable Paving

Soakaway crates have become the preferred method for managing surface water in the UK's civil engineering landscape. Available as standalone units or comprehensive sets, our soakaway crates are essential components for optimal protection and longevity within the drainage system.

We also offer a wide range of membranes, as well as inspection and cleaning options. These include silt traps, catchpit chambers and the parts needed to build a liner inspection channel using your Rainsmart storm crates.

Soakaway Crates - Efficient Stormwater Management Solutions

Effective stormwater management is key to the success and longevity of infrastructure projects. One of the key components in this area is the soakaway drainage system, particularly the innovative solutions provided by Rainsmart.

At the core of Rainsmart's offerings is a commitment to durability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. These soakaway crate systems are engineered with a keen eye on the challenges faced in civil engineering projects, ensuring they stand the test of time in even the most demanding environments.

Soakaway Crate Options

We offer a wide variety of rainwater soakaway crates so that you can tailor your system to your project and its requirements. These include:

  • Standard soakaway crates – available in both flat-packed and assembled options
  • Shallow dig soakaways – for properties in areas where the water table is higher than normal. Allows stacking in a single shallow layer whilst still holding the same amount of stormwater as a standard layout 1 cubic metre soakaway.
  • Soakaways for heavy soils – for properties in areas with low soil permeability, these crates give a much greater soil contact area (up to 4 times that of a standard one cubic metre soakaway) to encourage infiltration and reduce saturation in the area immediately surrounding the base soakaway structure.

Durability and Reliability

The durability of soakaway systems is non-negotiable in any drainage system. Rainsmart soakaway crate systems are meticulously designed and manufactured to withstand the rigours of construction and the elements. Manufactured using robust materials, these crates offer exceptional strength, featuring load ratings of up to 65 tonnes vertically and an industry-leading 18 tonnes laterally. This ensures that they can bear the weight and pressure associated with civil engineering projects.

Ease of Installation

Engineered for ease of installation, Rainsmart soakaway systems streamline the construction process, minimising downtime and labour costs. With simple assembly procedures and clear instructions, contractors can install these systems efficiently, keeping projects on schedule and within budget.

Rainsmart soakaway crates are offered both ready-built and flat-packed for ease of transportation and storage prior to installation. Assembly of flat-packed soakaways is an easy process, as the only tool required is a rubber mallet which is included in each cubic metre set. We also have a short instructional video on how to assemble a soakaway – click here to watch it.

Environmental Responsibility

In today's world, environmental considerations are paramount in every industry. Rainsmart is acutely aware of this fact and has integrated eco-friendly features into their drainage soakaway crate systems. With a focus on sustainability, these systems minimise their environmental footprint while maximising performance. From materials selection to manufacturing processes, every aspect is carefully considered to ensure minimal impact on the environment.

Performance Excellence

Performance is the cornerstone of Rainsmart's soakaway crate systems. These systems are engineered to deliver optimal results in stormwater management, exceeding the capabilities of traditional rubble soakaways. With an impressive void ratio of 95%, Rainsmart's systems offer superior water retention and infiltration capabilities, effectively managing stormwater runoff.

Versatility and Adaptability

Civil engineering projects come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique challenges and requirements. Rainsmart drainage soakaway crate systems are available in a range of sizes and configurations, allowing engineers to tailor solutions to the specific needs of their projects. Whether it's a small-scale development or a large infrastructure project, we have the solution with our soakaway crates from Rainsmart.

Innovative Solutions for Urban Challenges

Urbanisation brings its own set of challenges when it comes to stormwater management. Rainsmart's soakaway crate systems are engineered to address these challenges head-on. With innovative design features and advanced technology, these systems provide ground-breaking solutions to the rainwater management problems presented by urban developments. From infiltration to attenuation to retention, Rainsmart's systems offer versatile solutions for urban stormwater management.

Efficient Maintenance for Long-term Viability

Ensure the long-term viability and efficiency of your soakaway system with our comprehensive range of inspection and cleaning products. From specialised silt traps to catchpit chambers, our solutions prevent debris build-up, optimising soakaway performance. Explore options for building linear access channels within your soakaway system, facilitating easy maintenance and debris removal, which is crucial for sustaining the integrity of civil engineering infrastructure.

Permeable Paving - Ground-breaking Stormwater Innovation

Permeable paving has emerged as a ground-breaking solution in civil engineering for managing stormwater effectively. It offers a sustainable alternative to conventional paving systems by allowing water to infiltrate through its surface.

This innovative approach not only reduces stormwater runoff but also contributes to groundwater recharge, lessening the adverse effects of urbanisation on natural water systems.

Nero Pave: A Versatile Permeable Surface

Nero Pave stands out as a leading product in the realm of permeable paving. Designed with a wide variety of project considerations in mind, Nero Pave provides a multi-functional solution suitable for both grassed and gravel surfaces in parking and driving areas.

Grassed Surface Application

Nero Pave allows for the creation of a permeable grassed surface with a robust load-bearing capacity. This ensures that the surface can withstand vehicular loads while safeguarding any below vegetation from compaction. With an impressive void ratio of 95%, Nero Pave offers ample space for root development, promoting healthier vegetation. What's more, this high void ratio enhances stormwater infiltration, allowing the surface to act as a natural sponge that absorbs and filters rainwater.

Using Nero Pave can significantly reduce or even eliminate the reliance on traditional stormwater management structures such as catch basins and detention ponds. This not only saves on construction costs but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly development approach.

Gravel Surface Application

In addition to grassed surfaces, Nero Pave is also well-suited for creating permeable gravel surfaces. The unique structure of the paving system ensures optimal containment of gravel, even under heavy traffic conditions. This is particularly beneficial for extensively used parking areas, where the high load-bearing capacity and effective gravel containment of Nero Pave can result in virtually maintenance-free surfaces.

Benefits of Permeable Paving

  • Sustainable Stormwater Management: Nero Pave helps to reduce stormwater runoff, minimising the need for traditional drainage infrastructure.
  • Groundwater Recharge: By promoting infiltration, Nero Pave contributes to replenishing groundwater reserves, an essential aspect of sustainable water resource management.
  • Versatility: Nero Pave can be adapted to various surface types, including grassed and gravel surfaces, offering flexibility in design and application.
  • Low Maintenance: With its high load-bearing capacity and effective gravel containment, Nero Pave requires minimal maintenance, reducing lifecycle costs for civil engineering projects.

Incorporating permeable paving solutions like Nero Pave in your project offers a sustainable and cost-effective approach to stormwater management. By reducing stormwater runoff, promoting groundwater recharge, and providing versatile and low-maintenance surface options, Nero Pave proves to be a valuable asset for modern civil engineering practices.

For expert guidance on underground drainage maintenance and product selection tailored to your projects, contact our knowledgeable team.

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