You’re here because you’re considering installing a stormwater pit, obviously. Maybe you’re curious about whether you can tackle the job yourself. Perhaps a drainage plumber told you that a stormwater pit in the backyard is exactly what you need. But what is it? What’s involved? No matter why you’re here, let’s do the deepest possible dive into everything you need to know about stormwater pit installation in Brisbane.
What is a stormwater pit?
Before we go any further, we’ll need a definition: What is a backyard stormwater pit, precisely? And how does a stormwater pit work? Let’s explore:
In simple terms, a stormwater pit is a storage structure designed to collect excess water, typically rainwater or storm runoff, and then guide it safely away from areas like your garden, house or driveway. Think of it as a catch basin that stops your precious yard from turning into a literal pond every time it rains heavily. You can even divert this excess water to your French drains or rainwater tanks.
A stormwater pit is essential in homes that experience heavy rainfall or have poor drainage, helping to prevent flooding and water damage to both the property and landscape.
Have you been told to consider professional installation? There are actually various types of stormwater pits to choose from, each tailored to different water volumes and property layouts. Options range from:
- Compact plastic pits for low-traffic residential areas
- Polypropylene pits, a step up from basic plastic for durability and load-bearing capacity
- Fibreglass stormwater pits, ideal when weight restrictions are a concern
- More durable concrete pits that can handle heavy volumes in larger, more water-prone zones
- Steel-reinforced pre-cast pits for added durability, ideal for high-traffic areas or even commercial spaces
- Modular stormwater pit systems, allowing multiple units to be connected
- Perforated/slotted pits, where slow drainage is desired.
No idea what any of it means? A licensed plumber can easily guide you through the best choice based on your yard’s layout and needs.
What about a DIY drainage pit in backyard?
But what if you want to go about this DIY? Well, even if you’re a proficient and capable do-it-yourself-er, it’s definitely not as easy as just digging a hole, popping in a box, and hoping for the best. Not just that, many councils require stormwater installations to comply with strict standards, so going the DIY route might not just be challenging – it might be illegal.
And the other risks? Incorrectly installed drainage pits can lead to serious flooding issues, damage to the property, and costly repairs.
A brief guide to DIY stormwater pit installation
Determined to give it a go. Here’s a very brief overview of the basic process:
- Choosing a spot: Make it a low point where water naturally gathers.
- Digging the pit: Dig it deep enough fit the pit and allow for drainage pipes to connect.
- Installing the pit: A simple plastic pit may be used, but it should be set with proper drainage rock or gravel to prevent clogging.
- Connecting the pipes: Ensure the water flows into the pit and out to an appropriate drainage area.
- Covering & securing: Ensure the pit is covered securely to avoid any blockages or safety hazards.
Sound doable? Be well aware of the DIY risks, as professional drainage specialists and plumbers are always telling people that their do-it-yourself pits lack the structural integrity and careful planning involved with professional installation. Without the correct connections, pits can become blocked, flood, or even collapse – leading to further complications. A professionally installed stormwater pit, on the other hand, is robust and designed to last.
Professional stormwater pit installation – All you need to know
For difficult and intricate stormwater installation jobs like this, hiring a licensed plumber brings peace of mind and high-quality results. Let’s give you a deep, step-by-step insight into the expert installation process:
1. Site evaluation & drainage pit design
It starts with an assessment of the yard’s:
- Layout
- Soil type
- Water flow patterns.
Every site is unique, and your specialist will consider all these factors to design an effective drainage system tailored specifically for your property.
2. Choosing the right pit
Depending on the volume of water and the type of soil, your plumber will choose an appropriate pit. Options may include plastic stormwater pits for lighter needs, while high-capacity concrete pits may be recommended for areas that see significant runoff. How to install plastic stormwater pit? Factors like the pit’s durability, load-bearing capacity, and location all play a role in this process, so you definitely need guidance.
3. Planning the drainage path
The stormwater pit needs a carefully planned drainage path to guide water away from your home. Professionals know how to create a system that directs water safely into council stormwater drains or to a safe runoff area. This is where knowing how a stormwater pit works becomes essential. Misplacing or misaligning the pit could cause water backflow – completely defeating the purpose!
4. Excavation & installation
Excavating the site isn’t just about digging a hole, it involves:
- Ultra-accurate measurements
- Careful soil management
- Creating a rock-stable foundation.
Once the pit is ready, your pro will follow the regulatory-led and technical stormwater pit installation guide to ensure the pit is securely set – often using reinforced gravel and compaction methods to stabilise the area. If it’s a residential stormwater pit installation, additional measures may be taken to minimise disruption to your yard.
5. Pipe installation & connections
Connecting the pit to the stormwater drainage network is difficult and complex. Drainage professionals will lay the pipes at precise angles to ensure efficient water flow, as poorly laid pipes can lead to:
- Blocked drains
- Water overflow
- Even pipe collapse.
A licensed plumber knows how to install a stormwater pit with well-designed pipework that keeps water flowing smoothly.
6. Testing & inspection
Once everything is basically installed, the plumber will conduct tests to make sure water flows efficiently and there are no leaks. It’s a crucial phase to avoid future problems, ensuring everything is set up for long-term effectiveness.
7. Varieties & options for different needs
As we’ve already mentioned, stormwater pits come in various forms – from simple plastic options to super-reinforced concrete structures. In some cases, installing a plastic stormwater pit might be sufficient, while in others, it may require a more sophisticated setup. The plumber will guide you through options based on your needs and council regulations.
8. Ongoing maintenance & support
A professionally installed system also comes with long-term support. Professionals can provide advice on routine maintenance to ensure the pit remains effective over time. If any issues arise, you’ll have the support of the plumbing team who installed it, saving you the hassle of troubleshooting a DIY solution that might not work at all.
Why choose professional installation?
Never forget, Brisbane stormwater drainage and plumbing professionals are equipped with the expertise, tools, and materials to complete the job according to local codes and regulations – and you’ll get a workmanship guarantee on top of that as well! These guys fully understand the complexities and downsides of drainage pit design, from understanding soil properties to designing custom drainage paths and beyond. With a pro, you dodge all the pitfalls and hazards that come with getting it all wrong – including fines or penalties for an illegal installation.
Ready for expert stormwater pit installation?
Installing a stormwater pit may seem easy at first, but it’s no small task. That’s because learning how to install a drainage pit doesn’t just involve knowledge on paper, but years upon years of actual, hands-dirty experience. However, for you – the homeowner – getting it done right the first time saves time, money, and big headaches. So whether you need a new drainage pit in the backyard or you’re looking to upgrade your existing stormwater system or you simply need some friendly advice, the friendly team at S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting is your local go-to for Brisbane and surrounds. Call now to book a consultation – and let us design the stormwater solution that is 100% tailored to you and only you!