Trench drains, also known as channel drains, are a great option for dealing with water runoff or standing water. As a result, you can usually find them in areas where excess water tends to accumulate such as driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots. The trench itself is slightly sunken into the ground with a cover to make sure water gets in and larger items don’t.
Trench drain systems offer a versatile and effective drainage solution for numerous applications, providing efficient runoff collection. Constructed with a range of materials, each drainage system provides specific characteristics that make them suitable for specific uses, with varying channel depths, widths and load ratings available.
Slot drains are a popular drainage solution due to their ability to provide a large amount of drainage without compromising aesthetics. These slot drains boast a wide internal volume with minimal surface opening, allowing for high capacity in terms of water flow with the added benefit of a sleek, unobtrusive aesthetic appeal.
The Easy Home System is a great solution for those wanting to create a low weight installation for pedestrian only use. These channel drains are easy to work with and versatile enough for most residential needs. With all products compatible for easy connection with no need for adapters, this system offers the perfect solution for DIY projects.
Industrial trench drains are designed to handle the toughest applications. With load class ratings ranging from C to F, industrial channels are designed to support the heavy loads of industrial traffic, like those of forklifts or heavy pallet jacks.
Installing a trench drain is a great way to protect areas of your home or business from water damage. It can be a daunting task if you don’t know where to start; however, this guide will take you through the basics of trench drain installation.
From pre-installation planning and preparation, to the trench itself, and post installation maintenance, this guide is full of actionable steps that you can follow to ensure the trench gets installed properly.
The Step-by-Step Process of How to Install a Trench Drain
If you take the time to plan out your project and make precise measurements, trench drain installation can be done without much hassle. Once you have planned out your installation and have a clear work area, follow the instructions below.
1. Dig the Trench
With the required tools, dig out the trench. Be sure to create 4-inches of space on all sides (including the bottom) for the concrete backfill.
2. Prepare the Trench
Once you’ve excavated the trench, remove any stones or debris left inside. Afterwards, fix a string at the finished channel height. It will help you ensure your channel drain is not too high or too low. Then, spread a 2-inch layer of sand across the trench and use a shovel to press it down until it is flat and even. This will be your trench's foundation.
3. Prepare the Catch Basin
If you are using a catch basin, find the pipe stud-in location and use a hole saw to drill a hole in your catch basin that fits the pipe size, and connect it. If you are not using a catch basin, move on to the next step.
4. Place the Trench Drain at the Appropriate Height
Place your channel drain in the trench at the appropriate height, making sure it is in line with the string from Step 2. Afterwards, connect your drain pipe to the end drain outlet. Once the end outlet has been connected, caulk the joints to prevent any leaks.
5. Tape the Openings
When your caulking has dried, tape drain channel and the side grate locks to prevent concrete from seeping inside the drainage system and preventing proper drainage.
6. Backfill the Trench with Polymer Concrete
Now, it’s time to pour concrete into the trench. This is a three-step process:
- Float the channel 1/16-inch below the finished layer of concrete.
- Backfill the rest of the trench with at least 4-inches of concrete on both sides.
- Smooth the polymer concrete out, and let it cure completely.
7. Remove the Tape
After the trench drain installation is finished, the next step is to remove the tape that was used for protection. Once the channel opening is exposed, you can securely place the drain cover over it to complete your trench drain system.
We Have The Trench Drain You’re Looking For
At Vodaland, our diverse range of slot and trench drain systems covers everything from light pedestrian use to the heaviest industrial applications.
From options that are suitable for pedestrian areas to commercial entrances subject to light vehicular traffic, to areas that must withstand the heaviest industrial use and conditions, all of our trench drain systems have been crafted to provide superior drainage performance and durability.
Contact us now for the best solutions to your drainage troubles!
