Buyers Guide
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Buying a trench drain system can seem like a daunting task at first glance. Many factors are involved in choosing a trench drain system. Those factors include traffic load and type, grate classifications and environment. Also, there are many choices such as channel width, channel material, grate material, grate style, type of slope, load class, etc. Grates need to be chosen that will handle any special traffic such as bicycles, shoe heels and wheelchairs. These trench drain choices can lead to analysis paralysis, but taken one by one, choices can be narrowed to highlight the choice that is right for your application. The following information will help answer these questions.
First, a quick discussion about cost. It would be easy to scan a selection of trench drains and just choose the least expensive. As we say, &#;You only get to pour the concrete once&#;&#;. Quality trench drain systems suited for the correct purpose can be expensive. The consequences of choosing an inadequate trench drain can also be expensive because if the drain deteriorates it can become unsightly and may need to be replaced sooner than anticipated. On the flip side, over engineering the trench drain either by installing a larger drain than needed or higher grade than needed can be a waste of resources. Here at Trench Drain Supply we carry all of the major manufacturers and strive to help our customers purchase the correct trench drain system for their project requirements. Since we specialize in trench drains and know the ins and outs of each manufacturer, we can find the correct product for your application at the best price.
When calling our sales team for a quote, we have a series of questions we ask to narrow down the direction we need to take in order to choose the best system and quote for your application. Let&#;s walk through these steps.
The purpose of a trench drain system is to protect against damage to paved surfaces and surrounding areas related to water or chemical runoff. Systems consist of a trough or channel-shaped body which is used for the rapid evacuation of surface water or chemical spills.
The general parts of a trench drain system are:
There are two kinds of channels:(no fall) and(linear fall).
Every make and model comes in neutral, but not all types have a pre-sloped option. Pre-sloped means that the bottom of the trench drain becomes gradually deeper as the run progresses. This is very effective at driving the water downhill to the outlet or in the direction desired. This is achieved by making each channel in the trench drain run differently. Each channel has a number from 1 (the most shallow) to 10 (or 25 or 30 or 40) and must be installed as a series. Neutral channels have no slope and are a set depth with the bottom of the trench drain channel being the same depth on either end of the run. Water will flow to the outlet on a natural basis. These channels are used in shallow applications or where there is a sloped bed. Neutral channels can be combined with pre-sloped channels in a series to provide a run with desired results. They are easier to install because they can be installed in any order and easily accommodate any corners or connections.
Channels also come in a variety of width classes.Channels also come in a variety ofManufacturers quote width in different ways. Some quote the width from the interior of the channel, some quote width from the exterior of the channel, and some quote the total &#;reveal&#; of the trench drain channel. What really matters is how much water can be moved. Trench Drain Supply has broken channel widths into classes to simplify this confusion. The classes are 2&#;, 3&#;, 4&#;, 6&#;, 8&#;, 12&#; and Over 12&#;. Putting them into classes gives the consumer an apples-to-apples ability to compare trench drain channels with similar characteristics.
Grate Locks - Grate locks secure the grate to the channel with locks or connectors. These differ depending on manufacturer.
Current DIN/EN Load Classifications for trench drain grates are:
Current ASME/ANSI Load Classifications for trench drain grates are:
Wheelchair Accessability requires all grates follow ADA
guidelines for safety and accessability. Wheelchairs should be able to manuveur
over grating systems without difficulty.
Heel Proof means that a grate must not cause falls in
pedestrian traffic. High heel shoes, which could get stuck in average grates,
must be considered. Grates that have openings from 1/4&#; to 5/16&#; can be used to
accommodate shoes with high heels.
Bicycle Traffic requires grates to be engineered and
installed so that a bicycle wheel may not fall into a slot in the grate causing
a crash. Replace existing grates (See A and B in figure below) or weld thin
metal straps across the grate perpendicular to the direction of traffic (See C
in figure below) is required. These should be checked periodically to ensure
that the straps remain in place. Make sure that grates installed for bicycle
traffic are installed flush with the road surface.
SHARED ROADWAYS FHWA COURSE ON BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN TRANSPORTATION, Section
18.8
FDOT Drainage Considerations for Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities
Decorative grates that will add architectural detail and
design should be considered.
Hygienic grates are stainless steel grates and are the
perfect choice for hygiene in locations such as kitchens and baths. Stainless
steel will not rust or corrode and is easily cleaned.
There are several organizations that set the standards or guidelines for
trench drain systems.
DIN (Deutsches Institut fur Normung E.V.)
German Institute for Standardization is the German national organization for
standardization. DIN is the only standard written specifically for trench
drains and is internationally recognized. Current DIN/EN Load Classifications
for trench drain grates are:
EN European Norms European Standards are specifications defining requirements for products, production processes, services or test-methods. These specifications are voluntary. They are developed by industry and businesses following some basic principles such as consensus, openness, transparency and non-discrimination. Specifications ensure compatibility and safety, reduce costs and help companies join in trade. European Standards are under the responsibility of the European Standardisation Organisations (CEN, CENELEC, ETSI). EN works in conjunction with DIN.
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AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing highway and transportation departments in the United States. It represents five transportation modes: air, highways, public transportation, rail and marine. ASHTO has set standards for all phases of highway system development. Standards are issued for design, construction of highways and bridges, materials, and other technical areas.
ASME The
American Society of Mechanical Engineers is a not-for-profit membership
organization that enables collaboration, knowledge sharing, career enrichment,
and skills development across all engineering disciplines, toward a goal of
helping the global engineering community develop solutions to benefit lives and
livelihoods.
Standard A112.6.3 This Standard covers floor, area, adjustable floor, and
trench drains that are used inside of, or outside and immediately adjacent to,
building structures. This Standard specifies design requirements, definitions,
nomenclature, outlet types and connections, grate-free area, top loading
classifications, materials and finishes. Seam welded, socket type, stainless
steel fabricated drains are covered in ASME A112.3.1.
Drain Standards A112.6 6.1 Loading Classifications Grates and top rims shall be
designed to meet the following loading classifications:
Heel-proof Standard ASME A112.6.3- [Revision of ASME A112.6.3- (R)] Floor and Trench Drains
ANSI American National Standards Institute A private, non-profit organization that administers and coordinates the U.S. voluntary standards and conformity assessment system. This organization works with different entities to identify and develop standards for goods and services. ANSI works closely with ASME.
ADA American Disabilities Act is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. ADA Standards for Accessible Design 302.3 Openings. Openings in floor or ground surfaces shall not allow passage of a sphere more than 1/2&#; (13 mm) diameter except as allowed in 407.4.3, 409.4.3, 410.4, 810.5.3 and 810.10. Elongated openings shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel.
Federal Government Standards (RR-F-621C) Strength Criteria for Cast Iron Items In Highway Drainage Structures This government publication discusses the standards and strengths of manholes and grates on highways.
AASHTO's H-20 and HS-20 are live load ratings applied to the design of bridges or other suspended items (e.g., lids for concrete drains). H signifies 2 axial trucks weighing 20 tons; HS signifies 2 axial trucks with semi. An informative article on live load ratings can be found here: Live Load Ratings.
Drainage systems are an integral but often overlooked part of any property, whether it&#;s a residential or commercial space. They help to prevent the occurrence of water damage and flooding by directing water away from buildings. The channel drain is a critical drainage system component designed to collect and direct water toward the appropriate drainage point.
In this article, we will share with you a quick guide on how to buy channel drains:
Before buying a channel drain, assessing your drainage needs is vital. Consider the amount of water that has to be drained, the size of the area to be covered, and the type of surface where the drain will be installed. For example, suppose you are installing a channel drain in a driveway. In that case, you will need a heavy-duty drain that can withstand the weight of vehicles.
Channel drains can be made from different materials, including plastic, steel, and concrete. Every material has advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the best material for your specific needs is essential.
Plastic channel drains are lightweight and very easy to install. However, they may not be as durable as steel or concrete. Steel channel drains are solid and durable but can be more expensive. Concrete channel drains are also strong and durable but may require professional installation.
Channel drains come in different designs, including straight and curved drains. Linear drains are ideal for areas where water flows in a straight line, while curved drains are suitable for areas where water flows in a curved path. Curved gutters, on the other hand, are more expensive than linear drains. Still, they offer better water flow and can be more aesthetically pleasing.
When buying a channel drain, it&#;s essential to focus on quality. A high-quality drain will be durable, long-lasting, and resistant to damage from weather and other elements. Look for drains that are made from high-quality materials and have robust construction. Don&#;t compromise on quality, as a poorly made drain can cause more problems in the long run.
Installing a channel drain can be a DIY project, but it&#;s essential to consider the complexity of the installation before buying. Some channel drains require professional installation, especially if they are being installed in a large area or in a complex pattern. It&#;s important to factor in the installation cost when buying a channel drain, as it can significantly add to the overall cost.
A suitable quality channel drain will come with a warranty. Look for a drain that offers a guarantee for their products of at least ten years, as this can give you peace of mind should any defects or issues with the drain arise. A warranty will also protect you from having to replace the drain prematurely, which can be costly.
Buying a channel drain may seem daunting, but if you follow the simple tips shared here, you&#;ll be able to choose the right drain for your needs. Remember to assess your drainage needs, choose the suitable material and design, look for quality, consider installation, and look for a warranty. By doing so, you&#;ll be able to find a channel drain that will provide you with years of reliable service and protection from water damage.
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