Polypropylene Soakwells?
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Polypropylene soakwell installation in Perth typically costs from $600 depending on the number of soakwells required, site access, and complexity. Polypropylene soakwells are generally more cost-effective than concrete soakwells for residential properties. Contact us for a free quote based on your specific requirements and roof catchment area.
Most residential polypropylene soakwell installations are completed in 1-2 days. The exact timeframe depends on the number of soakwells required, site access restrictions, and soil conditions. Our compact 1-tonne excavator and mini dumper allow efficient installation even in restricted access areas with as little as 800mm clearance.
Polypropylene soakwells are modular plastic cubes that offer 60% void space for drainage, making them highly efficient in Perth's sandy soil. They're lighter, easier to install in restricted access areas, and more cost-effective than concrete. Concrete soakwells are better suited for surface water collection (like driveways) where grate access is needed, or when very large volumes are required (over 300m² catchment area).
Yes, polypropylene soakwells are fully council-approved and meet all Perth council regulations. They are trafficable (Class C rating, same as concrete) and comply with Australian Standard AS3500.1/3. We provide council-compliant installations with proper calculations based on your roof catchment area and local council requirements.
Our specialized equipment requires a minimum of 800mm (80cm) access on level ground. We use a compact 1-tonne excavator that's only 720mm wide (tracks retracted) and a 750mm wide mini dumper for spoil removal. This makes polypropylene soakwell installation ideal for restricted access sites, side yards, and properties with limited space.
The number of soakwells required depends on your roof catchment area and local council regulations. Generally, Perth councils require approximately 1 cubic metre of soakwell volume per 50m² of roof area. For example, a 200m² roof typically needs 4 cubic metres of volume, which equals approximately 28-30 x 140L polypropylene soakwells. We provide free calculations and quotes based on your specific property.
For over 20 years trafficable polypropylene soakwells have been installed in Perth to council regulations.
The polypropylene soakwell has been invaluable in delivering adequate drainage on sites with limited space, restricted access or an unusual block shape. Learn more about why soakwells are required and compare with concrete soakwell options.
Soakwell Quotes Quantified
A comprehensive soakwell quote includes performing a stormwater calculation based on council recommendations, and adding markup to plans or images to illustrate the proposed works.
By following a strict method, proper installation results in zero issues relating to inadequate drainage or sinking paving.
The Process
- Estimate the catchment area,
- Determine required volume based on council rain event formula.
- What is the minimum access for machinery ?
- What is the location of underground services ?
- Where is the available space in relation to the roof area ?
It is in everyone's interest to provide clients with information and avoid using misleading terms (such as flow rate) or making claims without substance regarding product performance.
Tip! - Always group the soakwells in as few locations as possible and connect to the proportional roof area. This area can be estimated, consistent distribution between individual downpipes cannot.
What are Polypropylene Soakwells ?
Polypropylene soakwells are modular cubes that join together. Manufactured from recycled polypropylene, these products offer unique advantages compared to other polypropylene soakwells available. Joined together any amount of volume is possible while maintaining the smallest footprint.
Around 60% of the soakwell surface area is void, and if arranged in single rows to maximise the potential, polypropylene soakwells are significantly more efficient compared to concrete soakwells of the same volume.
Each soakwell is wrapped in a geofabric made from a woven synthetic fibre that is needle punched to allow the water to flow through. The geofabric is chemically inert and will not rot or degrade underground over time. Both concrete and polypropylene soakwells are wrapped in geofabric.
A unique 140 litre soakwell is available with a length of only 500mm vs 750mm for other poly soakwells. This equates to one third less space required for more volume. This product has several advantages including locking together on all sides plus a unique honeycomb type construction that is significantly stronger than alternative products.
A common misconception is that 'plastic' soakwells are inferior to concrete soakwells. This is true for the small 600mm dia PVC soakwells (found at Bunnings for example), but absolutely not the case for trafficable polypropylene soakwells.
