Rainwater Infiltration in Mainz
Installation and maintenance of infiltration trenches
The consequences of land sealing are making themselves felt across Germany through increased prices for drinking water and wastewater, as well as damage caused by floods. The topic of rainwater infiltration is particularly relevant for many new building projects, conversions, and renovations.
Modern techniques now allow for the near-natural management of rainwater accumulation. Decentralized infiltration on site, such as through the use of infiltration troughs, is increasingly being requested by regulatory authorities.
What is decentralised rainwater infiltration?
When rainwater that has not been polluted with harmful substances infiltrates directly onto the property, this is referred to as “decentralised rainwater infiltration”. The technical issues in this context are regulated by the DWA-A 138 worksheet.
What is a storm drain?
An infiltration trench is an underground trench in which rainwater can infiltrate. Infiltration trenches are mainly planned because of limited space and the relatively simple realisation.
Infiltration trenches can be installed under paved paths and areas accessible by lorries. They can be combined with other techniques, e.g. above-ground depressions (swales).
Amendment of the Water Resources Act
According to the amended German Water Resources Act (WHG), more rainwater is to be infiltrated instead of being drained into the sewage system as was previously the case. According to § 55 para. 2 WHG, the mixing of rainwater and wastewater is to be avoided. In fact, this regulation means the end of the principle of mixed sewerage.
Furthermore, rainwater infiltration systems are increasingly prescribed in development plans. Modern infiltration trenches offer various advantages over classic rainwater infiltration (troughs, gravel):
- High storage and infiltration capacity (only 30% of the gravel volume is required for the same capacity).
- Less land required (less excavation)
- Hardly any restriction on surface usability (in contrast to swale infiltration)
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