Drainage is one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of any construction or landscaping project. Whether you’re working on a new build, a driveway, or even just a garden, getting the drainage right is essential to protecting your property from water damage, flooding, and long-term structural issues.
At Hutchings Groundworks & Plant Hire, we provide professional services across Devon and Newton Abbot. In this blog, we’ll explain the different types of drainage solutions available and help you understand which one might be right for your home or business.
Why Is Drainage So Important?
Without proper solutions, water can build up around your property, causing problems such as:
- Damp and mould inside buildings
- Erosion or damage to foundations
- Flooding in gardens, driveways, or basements
- Blocked or overflowing drains
Whether it’s rainwater or wastewater, it’s vital to have a system in place that efficiently directs water away from your property.
Types of Drainage Solutions
Here are some of the most common drainage options we offer to clients in Devon and the surrounding areas:
- Surface Water Drainage
This system handles rainwater that runs off roofs, driveways, or other hard surfaces. We install gullies, channels, and soakaways that collect and redirect water from the building.
- Foul Water Drainage
Used for carrying wastewater from kitchens, bathrooms, and toilets into the main sewer or a treatment system. We ensure it’s connected correctly and safely, following all local regulations.
- French Drains
French drains, trenches filled with gravel and a perforated pipe, are ideal for managing excess groundwater. These systems help redirect water away from areas prone to waterlogging.
- Soakaways
A soakaway is a large underground pit filled with rubble or a soakaway crate system. It allows water to slowly drain into the surrounding soil, helping to prevent surface flooding.
- Land Drains
Land drains are commonly used in gardens, fields, or large open spaces. They prevent surface water build-up and help keep the ground dry and usable.
Domestic vs Commercial Solutions
While the principles are the same, the scale and complexity of the system can vary.
- Domestic properties often require smaller drainage systems focused on surface water from driveways and roofs.
- Commercial properties may need larger capacity systems, including stormwater management, foul drainage, and environmental compliance.
We work closely with both homeowners and commercial clients to design and install the right system for the job.
We’ve been providing drainage solutions in Newton Abbot and the wider South West since 2012. Here’s why our customers trust us:
- Full site assessment and drainage design
- Expert installation by experienced professionals
- Reliable, long-lasting solutions
- Fully insured and CHAS accredited
- Competitive pricing and free quotes
If you’re concerned about water issues on your property — or planning a new project that needs proper drainage — Hutchings Groundworks & Plant Hire is here to help. We’ll find the right solution for you from small residential jobs to large commercial systems.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote for drainage services in Devon.
