Infiltration crates

An infiltration crate is an underground hollow space for storing water. The water can then slowly be absorbed into the soil. To prevent dirt from entering, a geotextile cloth is placed around the crate. This prevents the crates from becoming clogged. Each crate can store 250 to 300 litre .

Costs

A basic set of infiltration crates costs around €450, and each additional crate costs around €175.

Use of space

An infiltration crate is designed to maximize hollow space. The crate also has a high load-bearing capacity. The crates can take up a lot of space. However, one advantage is that you can build a terrace or lawn on top of the crate. This makes the space multifunctional.

Difficulty

Easy to install yourself. Remember to provide ventilation and a sand trap.

Earthmoving

The crates should be buried approximately 25 to 50 cm below ground level. The crates are usually 40 cm high. This requires a lot of earthmoving. You can dispose of any soil that you no longer need.

Maintenance

Only clean the sand trap and leaf trap.

Climate goals

Storing water and ensuring natural replenishment of groundwater.

Biodiversity

Contribution to improving biodiversity

Points of attention

  • If the top layer of soil consists mainly of clay and loam, this measure is not effective. The water cannot sink quickly into the soil.
  • Allow for a minimum of 25 cm of coverage. For heavy loads, such as crates under a driveway, approximately 50 cm of coverage should be maintained.
  • Place the crate approximately half a metre the average groundwater level.
  • Do not use root cloth, but rather geotextile fabric.
  • Use a leaf and sand trap to prevent clogging. In extreme cases, a leaf trap can also serve as an overflow.
  • Stay approximately 2 to 3 metre away metre the foundation and trees.
  • Place the vent and overflow pipe in a lower part of the garden. During peak rainfall, rainwater that no longer fits in the infiltration crate can be collected at that location.
  • Check the vent. The downspout sometimes also functions as a vent for the sewer. If necessary, install an alternative vent.