Drainage Installations in Bedford and Stevenage | How Soil Types Affect Drainage Installations

Types of Soil and Their Impact on Drainage

Soils can be generally classified into three main types: sandy, clay, and loamy, and each has its distinct properties that affect drainage performance.  Our drainage company examines these below:

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil is characterised by its loose, granular structure, which allows for rapid drainage of water. This is because the large particles create large gaps between them, allowing water to pass through quickly.

Key things to note with sandy soils:

• Waterlogging and standing water are less likely to be a problem.

• Sandy soils can drain too quickly, which may lead to issues with the soil becoming too dry, especially during periods of low rainfall.

When dealing with sandy soil, it's important to strike a balance. To prevent the rapid loss of water, solutions such as incorporating soil amendments or using moisture-retentive materials during installation can help maintain adequate soil moisture levels. In drainage installations, soakaways work particularly well with sandy soils, as they allow excess water to infiltrate the ground efficiently.

Clay Soil

Clay soil, in contrast, is composed of extremely fine particles that pack closely together, making it much denser than sandy soil.

• Clay soil has low permeability, meaning water moves through it very slowly.

• Clay soils are more prone to waterlogging and surface runoff, as the soil’s compact nature restricts water flow and drainage.

Effective drainage installation in clay soil requires careful planning. French drains (gravel-filled trenches containing perforated pipes) can be an excellent solution for clay areas in Bedford and Stevenage, helping to redirect water away from the property and avoid pooling. 

Additionally, soakaway crates can be used to store excess water and release it slowly, giving the ground time to absorb it. In some cases, improving soil aeration by mixing sand or organic matter with the clay can also enhance permeability and overall drainage performance.

Loamy Soil

Loamy soil is considered ideal for drainage installations due to its balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay.

• Moderate permeability, allowing for effective water infiltration without excessive runoff or water retention.

• The soil’s natural structure helps maintain a healthy balance of water absorption and runoff. 

In areas with loamy soil, installing drainage systems is typically more straightforward. However, despite its favourable properties, even loamy soil requires regular maintenance to prevent issues over time. A well-designed drainage system, including surface drains and appropriate grading, ensures that loamy soil continues to function efficiently, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.