If you’ve ever had to hire a skip, you will know just how frustrating it can be to find it full of water. Not only is the water an inconvenience, but it can also add a considerable amount of weight to the skip as well. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce the amount of water that builds up in your skip.
This guide contains everything you need to know about removing and keeping water from your skip. We will discuss the best methods for keeping water out and how to get rid of water that has accumulated in your skip. You will also learn to drain your skip properly throughout the hire period.
What Are Skips?
Skips provide a convenient and cost-effective way to manage your rubbish. These large, open-topped metal containers are used to store and dispose of waste materials. They are usually acquired from a skip hire company, which delivers and collects the skip from your property. The containers come in a variety of types and sizes, such as open-top, enclosed, or drop-door skips., and are generally hired for a duration of 1 to 2 weeks.
Why Is Water a Problem?
Unwanted water in skips can be problematic for several reasons. Firstly, water can cause the waste material inside the skip to become waterlogged and extremely heavy, making it difficult to lift and dispose of. A common cause of water in skips is rainwater. When it rains, the water will collect in the skip, which can take a long time to evaporate.
In addition, water can cause the contents of the skip to become unstable and could lead to accidents. It can cause unpleasant smells and lead to mould and bacteria growth. This creates a health hazard for workers who are handling the rubbish.
Removal Process
Getting rid of water from your skip can be easier said than done, especially if it rains heavily. Fortunately, removing the water doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Follow these steps to remove water from the skip like a professional:
- Empty the Skip: If you’re dealing with a skip full of water, the best place to start is to empty the contents. This will help you identify the water source and allow you to access the bottom of the skip.
- Investigate the Source of the Water: Check around the skip and see if you can identify any sources of water. Common sources include rainwater, leaks, and overflowing drains.
- Use a Pump: If the water source cannot be identified, a pump can remove the water from the skip. Make sure it is designed for this type of job and is suitable for removing water from the skip.
- Bail Out the Water: Use buckets or other containers to bail out the water from the skip if you don’t have access to a pump. Doing so will take time and effort, but it is a much cheaper alternative than a pump.
- Remove Debris: Once you have removed the water from the skip, look out for any rubbish that may have been washed into it during the removal process. Be sure to remove the debris before disposing of it.
- Dry the Skip: Take the time to dry the skip once all the water is gone. This will help to prevent any water from collecting in the skip again in the future.
Always wear protective clothing and gloves when removing water from your skip. Also, removing any mud or debris from the skip at the same time is also a good idea.
Maintenance Hacks
Water can cause a lot of damage to your skip, and if it’s not dealt with properly, it can be an expensive problem. Fortunately, you can prevent water from entering and damaging your skip by following these tips and tricks:
- Use a Waterproof Cover: A skip cover is created to protect the skip’s contents from rain and other forms of moisture. Make sure to securely fasten the cover to the skip to ensure it stays in place.
- Place the skip on a Hard Surface: When placing the skip, put it on a hard surface like concrete or asphalt. This will help to prevent water from pooling around the skip and seeping into its contents.
- Elevate the Skip: Do this when you place the skip on a soft surface such as grass or soil. This can be done by placing the skip on a wooden platform or a stack of bricks. This keeps the skip above any water that is present in the ground.
- Place the skip on an Incline: If you cannot elevate the skip, consider placing it on an incline. As a result, the water will not pool around the skip and will drain away any water that enters it.
- Put up a Drainage System: Install a drainage system when you plan to put the skip in a flood-prone area. This ensures that water entering the skip is quickly drained away and does not become waterlogged.
- Inspect Regularly: It is crucial to monitor the skip for any signs of water damage or waterlogging. If you see signs of water damage or waterlogging, take action and address the issue as soon as possible.
Following these maintenance tips should help to keep your skip in good shape and ready for use. Additionally, applying a protective sealant or coating to the exterior surface of the skip will help to prolong its useful life.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide provides information on how to keep water out of your skip and remove accumulated water. The best methods for keeping water out include keeping the skip on a level surface and covering the skip with a tarp. You must also ensure that the skip is drained throughout the hire period by regularly emptying any standing water.
Find the right skip for your needs at Enviro Skip Hire. We are a family-owned-and-operated skip hire company that offers a wide selection of skips, ranging from domestic skips to enclosed skips. Call us at 01270 820 426 or email us at [email protected] to hire a skip today!
