It is essential to complete regular stormwater drainage maintenance as part of owning a residential or commercial property to create a safe living or working environment. Blocked drains can lead to flooding or pooling water, creating a potentially unsafe environment.
Importance of Keeping Drainage Clear
As stormwater drainage systems drain water away from your property, when they clog or block it causes water to accumulate. This makes surfaces such as cement or tiles very slippery – potentially leading to injuries. Stagnant water can also attract pests or rodents to the area.
Foundations of buildings close to the blocked drain are also at risk – water can seep in and cause costly structural damage.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance will help protect you and your property from stormwater related damages or injuries.
Install Drainage Grates
Drain grates are covers for the trench that prevent debris such as rubbish and leaves from entering the drain, whilst still allowing water to flow into and through the system. Grates can help reduce the risk of the drain from blocking and can assist in minimizing future maintenance, as all the debris will gather on the surface of the drain instead of inside. Often when debris gathers inside a drain, silt compacts to form a mud-like consistency; catching leaves and debris in it.
SABdrain has a wide range of quality grates in varying sizes and materials to suit different residential and commercial needs. Options include stainless steel, galvanised steel, polypropylene or cast iron for added durability.
Regular cleaning
Stormwater systems require regular cleaning to prevent blockages and clogs, reducing the risk of property damage. Thoroughly clean drains by using a brush, rake or broom to sweep away leaves, twigs and other debris that accumulates on top of the grate or within the drainage channel.
Gutter Maintenance
Gutters feed into stormwater drains, so it is essential to also keep them clean and free flowing. This will help prevent any blockages in your drains as well as other issues from overflowing gutters.
- Clean gutters and downpipes at least twice a year. If you have overhanging trees, its incredibly important to ensure there are no blockages from leaves or plants attempting to take root in gutters. Increase cleaning if needed.
- Use ladder or scaffolding to access gutters safely. Hire a professional roof/gutter cleaner if necessary.
- Once you have removed debris or blockages, flush gutters and pipes thoroughly to check water flow, leaks or remaining blockages.
- Use ladder or scaffolding to access gutters safely. Hire a professional roof/gutter cleaner if necessary.
- Ensure downpipes are aligned properly, and also clear from debris or clogs.
- Consider installing gutter guards or screening to reduce the amount of debris that can enter your gutters. This will also make maintenance easier and faster.
- Watch for signs of damage such as rusting, sagging or leaks
Sweeping Regularly
Keep the area around your drainage system free from dirt, leaves, sticks and other debris by sweeping or raking regularly, disposing appropriately in green waste. Removing this debris will prevent it from being washed into the stormwater system during heavy rainfall.
When sweeping, blowing and removing debris, be aware of the location of your drains and ensure you are not pushing debris toward them.
Inspections
Complete regular inspections of your drainage systems to identify minor or potential damages before they become major issues. By identifying and fixing minor issues, you can minimise the need for repairs, avoiding costly maintenance and keep your property in good condition.
- DamageLook for corrosions or cracks in pipes, channels or grates.
- WearIdentify signs of wear such as corrosions or rust
- BlockagesCheck for blockages caused by debris buildup or other obstructions
- LeakingCheck for signs of water damage from leaks around the drains and pipes.
