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Why shingle around pipes?
Shingle is often used around underground drainage pipes to help protect the pipes from damage. The shingle acts as a layer of protection, helping to prevent the pipes from being punctured or crushed by heavy loads or movement in the ground. The shingle also helps to stabilize the ground around the pipes, reducing the risk of the pipes becoming displaced or misaligned. Additionally, the shingle can help to filter out debris and sediment, which can help to keep the pipes clear and functioning properly.Is 10 or 20mm shingle best?
Shingle is a type of small, angular aggregate that is used for a variety of purposes, including landscaping, construction, and erosion control. The size of the shingle, such as 10mm or 20mm, can affect its suitability for different applications.
10mm shingle is often used for decorative purposes, such as creating paths or driveways. It can also be used as a surface dressing for roads, as a filter material in drainage systems, and as a base for paving.
20mm shingle is larger than 10mm shingle and is often used for more heavy-duty applications, such as surfacing driveways or roads that will be subject to heavy traffic. It can also be used as a drainage material, as a base for paving, and as a filter material in larger drainage systems.
In general, smaller shingle is more suitable for decorative purposes, while larger shingle is better suited for heavy-duty applications. It's important to choose the right size of shingle for your specific needs to ensure that it is effective and durable.
When to use soakaway crates?
Soakaway crates are used in the construction of soakaways, which are underground structures that are designed to capture and store excess rainwater. The excess water is then gradually released back into the ground, rather than being allowed to run off into surface water channels or to cause flooding.
Soakaway crates are typically made of plastic and are used to create a structure that allows water to flow into the ground more easily. They are often used in areas where the soil is not particularly permeable, or where the water table is relatively high.
Soakaway crates are usually used in the construction of new buildings, or in the renovation of existing buildings, where there is a need to manage surface water runoff in order to prevent flooding. They can also be used in gardens or landscaped areas to manage excess rainwater and prevent soil erosion.
How many soakaway crates are needed?
The number of soakaway crates needed for a particular project will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the area that needs to be drained, the amount of rainfall that is typically received in the area, and the permeability of the soil.
In general, a soakaway should be large enough to accommodate the volume of water that it is expected to receive. As a rough guide, you will need approximately one cubic meter of soakaway capacity for every 1,000 liters of water that you need to drain.
It is always a good idea to speak to a professional or consult a soakaway design calculator to get a more accurate estimate of the number of soakaway crates you will need for your project.
What size is UK domestic underground drainage?
In the UK, the standard size for domestic underground drainage pipes is 110mm in diameter. These pipes are typically made of PVC or plastic and are used to carry waste water and sewage away from buildings.
In some cases, larger diameter pipes may be used for underground drainage in domestic properties. For example, a 150mm diameter pipe may be used if the property has a high volume of waste water, or if the pipes need to carry water over a longer distance.
It is important to use the correct size of pipe for your underground drainage system, as using a pipe that is too small can result in blockages and reduced flow, while using a pipe that is too large can be unnecessarily expensive and may not provide any additional benefits.
What fall do I use for drainage?
The "fall" in a drainage system refers to the slope or angle at which the pipes are installed. The fall is necessary to allow gravity to help move the water or waste through the pipes.
The amount of fall required for a drainage system will depend on the type of system you are installing and the characteristics of the pipes you are using. In general, you will need to ensure that the fall is sufficient to allow the water or waste to flow freely through the pipes, without becoming stagnant or backing up.
As a general rule of thumb, a minimum fall of 1:40 is recommended for domestic drainage systems. This means that for every 40 meters of pipe, the fall should be at least 1 meter. For example, if you are installing a drain that is 10 meters long, the fall should be at least 10/40, or 0.25 meters.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the fall of the pipes you are using, as different materials and sizes of pipe may have different requirements. It is also a good idea to speak to a professional if you are unsure about the fall required for your drainage system.
How to clear blockages in drainage pipes?
1. Rods: One option is to use rods to try to clear the blockage. This involves inserting a series of long, flexible rods into the drain and using them to push or pull the blockage through the pipe. This can be effective for smaller blockages, but may not be sufficient for larger ones.
2. Chemical cleaners: Another option is to use chemical cleaners to try to dissolve the blockage. These cleaners contain powerful chemicals that can break down grease, hair, and other common blockages. They can be effective, but they can also be harmful to the environment and should be used with caution.
3. High-pressure water jetting: This method involves using a high-pressure jet of water to blast through the blockage and clear the drain. It can be effective for larger blockages, but it can also be damaging to the pipes if not used properly.
4. Professional plumbing services: If you are unable to clear the blockage yourself, it may be necessary to call a professional plumber to help. They will have the tools and expertise needed to clear the blockage and get your drain working properly again.How to join pipes?
1. Clean the pipes: Before you start, it's important to make sure that the pipes are clean and free of dirt and debris. You can use a pipe cleaning solution or a wire brush to scrub the inside of the pipes.
2. Apply pipe lubricant: Next, apply a generous amount of pipe lubricant to the outside of the pipes. This will help the pipes slide together more easily and also help to create a watertight seal.
3. Slide the pipes together: Carefully slide the pipes together, making sure that they are aligned correctly. You may need to use a pipe-fitting tool to help get them into position.
4. Test for leaks: Once the pipes are secured, it's important to test them for leaks. You can do this by filling the pipes with water and checking for any drips or leaks. If you find any, you may need to tighten the fittings or apply additional sealant to create a watertight seal.
It's important to note that you should not use washing up liquid as a pipe lubricant. Washing up liquid is not designed for use with pipes and could potentially cause problems, such as creating a slippery surface that makes it difficult to secure the pipes in place. Instead, you should use a pipe lubricant specifically designed for this purpose.
Can underground drainage be used above ground?
Yes, it's important to note that underground drainage pipes are not typically coated with UV-resistant materials. These pipes are designed for use below ground, where they are not exposed to UV radiation from the sun. As a result, they are not generally made of materials that are resistant to UV radiation.
If you need to install a drainage system above ground, you will need to use a different type of pipe and fittings. There are a variety of above-ground drainage systems available, including PVC, HDPE, and metal pipes. These systems are typically made of materials that are more resistant to UV radiation, temperature changes, and other factors that can affect above-ground pipes.
It is possible to use underground drainage pipes above ground in some cases, but it is generally not recommended. These pipes may not be strong enough to withstand the loads and stresses that they will be subjected to when used above ground, and they may be prone to leaks and other problems. In addition, the lack of a UV coating means that they may become damaged by UV radiation over time, which could lead to leaks or other problems. It is usually better to use pipes and fittings that are specifically designed for above-ground use.
How to stop smells coming from drainage?
1. Check for blockages: One common cause of smells coming from drainage is a blockage in the pipes. If you notice a bad smell coming from your drains, it's worth checking for blockages. You can try using a plunger to clear the blockage, or you may need to use rods or chemical cleaners to remove it.
2. Use enzymes: Another option is to use enzymes to help break down any organic material that may be causing the smell. These enzymes are specifically designed to break down grease, hair, and other common blockages and can help to eliminate odors.
3. Install a ventilation system: If your drains are prone to bad smells, you may want to consider installing a ventilation system. This will help to remove any odors from the drains and prevent them from entering your home.
4. Clean your drains regularly: Regularly cleaning your drains can also help to prevent bad smells. You can use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to help remove any buildup of grease or other organic material that may be causing the smells.
5. Call a professional: If you have tried these steps and are still experiencing smells from your drains, it may be necessary to call a professional plumber. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a solution to help stop the smells.
