A stormwater pit system is a special pathway for rainwater or water that runs on hard surfaces like paved parking lots or concrete sidewalks. These pathways are important because they stop water from sitting around in places where people walk and park, which can make things smell and not so healthy. Here’s a simple explanation of what to think about when making a stormwater pit:

How does a stormwater pit work?

At its core, concrete stormwater pits are simple holes in the ground made from strong materials like concrete or plastic. On top, there’s a grid or open cover. This pit connects to special pipes that carry the rainwater from your yard. When it rains, the water goes into the pit.

Any leaves or dirt that comes with it gets trapped on the grid. The water stays in the pit before it flows away through the pipes to where it needs to go. During a super heavy rain, the pit helps by giving all that extra water a place to stay. This way, it doesn’t rush into the drains too fast and cause problems.

Why Proper Stormwater Drainage Matter

Drainage is like getting rid of unwanted water hanging around where people live. Sometimes, deciding which water is “unwanted” is tricky because people also use water for important things like watering plants or giving water to animals. But most of the problems with water in living spaces happen because of the unwanted water like:

Stormwater

Sometimes, when it rains a lot, the water doesn’t soak into the ground, get caught by plants, or evaporate into the air. This extra water stays on the ground’s surface. It can either gather in low spots or travel over the ground until it finds rivers or streams where it can escape. This extra rainwater is called “stormwater,” which usually shows up during certain times of the year.

Floodwater

Flooding happens when rivers or channels get too full, and their water spills. This flooding usually occurs during certain times of the year and brings a lot of water.

Sullage

Sullage is kind of like leftover water. It’s the water from things like washing dishes or hands, water that accidentally spills, or even water that leaks from pipes or taps. Unlike stormwater, which can be a lot and come mainly during certain seasons, sullage is usually just a small amount of water and doesn’t change much throughout the year.

Tips to Prevent Water from Pooling

If your drainage isn’t working well, it can cause problems like water gathering in puddles, soil getting washed away, and even messing up the structure of your property. To prevent these issues, here’s what you should do:

1. Regular Inspection

Over time, leaves, dirt, or other things can build up inside stormwater pits, slowing the water flow. It’s essential to peek inside and see if there’s any junk in there. If you find debris, silt, or anything blocking the way, remove it. Keeping these pits clean and clear will help water flow smoothly through your drainage system, preventing puddles and problems around your property.

2. Proper Sizing

It’s not just about checking your stormwater pits; you must also ensure they’re the right size for your property. If they’re too small, they won’t be able to handle all the water when it rains a lot. A pit that’s the right size will do its job efficiently, preventing overflow and keeping your property dry.

3. Adequate Grading

Creating the right landscape around your stormwater pit is another key aspect. You want the ground to tilt or slant gently away from the pit. This natural slope helps rainwater to follow gravity and flow towards the pit. When the ground is graded properly, water won’t hang around in puddles near your property.

With the right slope, water moves away from your home, preventing it from causing problems and ensuring everything stays dry and comfortable. Think of grading as giving your yard the perfect tilt to guide rainwater where it needs to go.

4. Quality Materials

The materials you choose are crucial when building or upgrading your stormwater pit. Using high-quality materials for your stormwater pit ensures that it’s built to last. Investing in good materials ensures your drainage system remains reliable, keeping your property safe from water-related issues.

5. Professional Maintenance

Professionals specializing in drainage systems can detect and fix problems before they become major headaches. These experts have the knowledge and experience to inspect your stormwater system thoroughly. They can identify any issues that might be lurking beneath the surface.

By catching these problems early, you can avoid costly repairs or damage to your property. It’s a proactive way to ensure everything runs smoothly and your property stays safe and dry.

Practical Drainage Insights

Making sure water drains well in your concrete stormwater pits is super important. You can do this by checking them often, using the right size, and good materials. When you take care of your stormwater pit, you’re not just looking after your property but also helping protect the environment. It’s like being a hero for your home and nature simultaneously.