Surface Water Drainage Systems

Surface water drainage is a system designed to collect and manage rainwater from roofs, roads, driveways and other hard surfaces. It directs excess water away from buildings and infrastructure through pipes, channels and soakaways, helping prevent flooding, erosion and structural damage.

Surface water drainage systems typically include components such as twinwall pipes, fittings, junctions and seals to transport water underground. They may also include soakaway crates, gullies, channels and rainwater harvesting systems, which work together to collect, convey and disperse rainwater safely.

Surface water drainage systems can fail due to blockages from debris, sediment build-up, damaged pipes or poor installation. Inadequate system capacity, ground movement and lack of maintenance can also cause problems, leading to slow drainage, water pooling and increased risk of flooding.

Surface water drainage must comply with UK building regulations, including requirements for sustainable drainage systems. These regulations encourage on-site water management through infiltration, attenuation and controlled discharge to reduce flooding risks and protect local watercourses. All products we supply at Drainfast adhere to all compliance regulations.

Surface water is run-off from rainfall and snow melt that isn’t absorbed into the ground. Surface water drainage is largely required for larger, non-porous areas of concrete or asphalt, such as roads, car parks, industrial areas and airports. Surface water drainage systems channel this stormwater into main drains or soakaway systems, and sometimes into watercourses. Other systems divert rainwater, often from roofs, into rainwater harvesting systems. Storing and reusing this water for irrigation and other non-potable purposes reduces demand on the mains water supply and conserves water in dry periods. 

Land drainage reduces the water content of land that is permanently or persistently waterlogged or flooded. It is frequently used in sports fields, on construction sites and in agriculture. On a smaller scale, it is used to improve the soil quality of otherwise waterlogged gardens.

Yes, surface water drainage and underground drainage serve different purposes. Surface water drainage manages rainwater from roofs, roads and paved areas, directing it into soakaways, watercourses or drainage networks. Underground drainage typically carries wastewater and sewage from buildings to the main sewer system. While both use pipes and fittings, surface water systems are designed to specifically handle rainfall and stormwater runoff.

Here at Drainfast, we provide quick delivery for your surface water drainage products. For nationwide delivery, we’re partnered with a range of reliable couriers, pallet networks and bespoke haulage providers, with many products delivered in 1-3 working days. We also provide next-working-day delivery for goods delivered to certain areas of the country when ordered before 5pm. For more information, explore our Delivery and Returns Policy, or get in touch with our team.