A concrete trench drain—also called a channel drain or just a trench drain—effectively collects surface water and channels it away from potentially flood-prone areas. Install a grate or cover on these drains to prevent debris from entering the system. Additionally, the trench is long, narrow, and lined with durable concrete.
The efficient management of stormwater runoff is one of the main purposes of a concrete trench drain in a variety of environments, such as municipal, commercial, residential, and industrial areas. Loading docks, parking lots, driveways, and sidewalks are ideal for their installation outdoors, where water tends to pool.
A concrete trench drain can properly collect and divert water from the ground. This helps to protect infrastructure from water damage, erosion, and puddles. Another way they contribute to better safety is by decreasing the likelihood of slip-and-fall incidents brought on by pools of water.
Because it adapts to a wide range of configurations, shapes, and sizes, a concrete trench drain is a great choice for various drainage applications. During installation, we dig a trench, place and secure the concrete channel, and backfill with concrete or aggregate to ensure stability.
What is a trench drain system?
A trench drain system—also called a channel drain—is a typical option when surface water needs to be properly captured and moved away from industrial facilities, driveways, parking lots, and patios.
A trench drain system features a long, narrow trench or channel, usually constructed of metal, plastic, or concrete. Installed level with the surface, this channel slopes slightly to promote water flow toward a specified collecting point or outlet.
The trench has a slotted cover or grate that lets water in but keeps larger material out. Once it enters the trench, the channel directs the water to an appropriate drainage area, stormwater management system, or drainage pipe.
Trench drain systems have many benefits, including protecting infrastructure from water damage and regulating surface water runoff. You can change their size, material, and arrangement to meet your applications and load requirements.
Steps on how to make a concrete trench drain
Several procedures come into play when creating a trench drain out of concrete. Here’s an overview:
Design and Planning
- Find out what size and kind of grate or cover you’ll need for the trench drain to keep large objects and debris out.
- Determine the required dimensions by plugging in the anticipated water volume and flow rate.
- When deciding on the trench drain’s length, width, and depth, consider the expected water flow and the site’s specifics.
- Make sure water drains properly towards the trench by considering the angle of the land.
- Find out where you’ll use the trench drain and its function. Does it include wastewater management, industrial runoff, or stormwater drainage?
Gather tools and materials
- You will need common construction equipment such as a shovel, a level, a wheelbarrow, and, if necessary, a concrete mixer (for large-scale concrete projects).
- For extra strength, you may need reinforcement bars (rebar). But this depends on the size and load-bearing requirements.
- Concrete mix: Choose a premium concrete mix appropriate for your project.
Excavation
- To stabilize the soil at the base of the trench, compact it.
- Excavate the trench according to your intended proportions. Ensure the trench’s base slopes slightly toward the intended outlet for proper water drainage.
Base Installation and Reinforcement:
- If necessary, reinforce the concrete by placing the rebar framework inside the trench. All load-bearing requirements must be considered when deciding on rebar size and spacing.
- Spread crushed stone or gravel at the trench’s base for correct drainage.
Formwork Setup
- Build forms along the trench’s sides to define the drain’s shape. Check that the forms are sturdy and not crooked.
- If needed, fasten the forms in position using stakes.
Mixing and pouring concrete
- Ensure you prepare the right amount of concrete by following the instructions on the package.
- Working your way to the other end of the trench, pour the concrete into the space between the formwork.
- Using a trowel or shovel, evenly distribute and level the concrete along the trench.
Finishing
- Use a float or screed to smooth out the concrete’s surface for a consistent look.
- Get the concrete halfway hardened before taking the forms out. This will prevent the concrete from deforming or slumping.
- Carefully remove the forms when the concrete hardens to the desired consistency.
Curing and sealing:
- To keep the surface protected and make it last longer, consider sealing it after the concrete cures fully.
- Keep the trench wet for a few days to ensure the concrete cures properly. You can spray it with water regularly or cover it with plastic sheets.
Testing and Maintenance:
- After installing the trench drain, make sure it works properly by filling it with water and watching it drain.
- Over time, routine maintenance, such as clearing the debris drain, will keep it in good working order.
Remember that the concrete trench drain must conform to all applicable municipal, state, and federal safety and structural standards. If you’re not good with concrete, consider getting a pro to help you.
How deep can a trench drain be?
A trench drain’s depth can change based on the construction materials used, local construction codes, and intended use, among other things. Trench depths typically vary from a few inches to several feet.
The depth of a concrete trench drain for domestic use, like a patio or driveway, is usually between four and six inches. In commercial or industrial situations, trench drains can be deeper—up to two or three feet—to manage higher loads or bigger volumes of water.
To find out what depth is necessary for your project, it’s best to talk to an expert engineer or builder and research local building codes. When deciding how deep a concrete trench drain should be, it’s important to take into account things like water flow rates, slope, and soil composition.
The pros and cons of trench drains
Pros
There are numerous benefits to using a concrete trench drain:
- Durability
Trench drains are long-lasting and reliable because they withstand harsh weather and large loads. Durable materials used to make them include stainless steel, fiberglass, and polymer concrete.
- Visual Appeal
While mainly functional, a trench drain improves an area’s aesthetic appeal and can also add to its aesthetic value. They are available in a variety of finishes and styles to match any decor.
- Versatility
Their versatility makes them ideal for use on various surfaces, from pavers and asphalt to concrete. Additionally, their ease of installation makes them suitable for indoor and outdoor settings.
- Safety
They improve security by reducing the risk of falling due to stagnant water.
- Customizable
You may customize a concrete trench drain to fit your individual preferences. This is because they come in a variety of materials and sizes. You can customize them with various grating options to suit specific load-bearing needs or personal aesthetic preferences.
- Easy to Maintain
Easy maintenance is a hallmark of concrete trench drain design. Grates are usually detachable, making debris removal and cleaning a breeze.
- Effective water drainage
Trench drains are a great way to collect and redirect water away from commercial areas, patios, and driveways vulnerable to pooling and flooding. This helps prevent water damage and ensures safety.
- Prevent Erosion
A concrete trench drain can help keep structures and surfaces intact over time by diverting water away from areas that could erode.
Cons
While trench drains are a great option for many different types of drainage problems, they are not without their flaws:
- Easy Access
Some people, especially those with mobility concerns, may find trench drains inaccessible. This can be an issue in places that need to adhere to accessibility standards, such as public venues.
- Freezing in Cold Environments
Trench drains can freeze in colder climates when winter rolls around. This can hinder their functionality and necessitate extra precautions to prevent damage.
- Maintenance
Trench drains in areas where debris accumulates require frequent cleaning and maintenance to prevent clogging. Ignoring maintenance might result in flooding, bad smells, and other problems.
- Limited Capacity
A concrete trench drain’s ability to manage significant amounts of water during floods or severe rainfall depends on its size and construction. This may lead to drainage and overflow problems.
- Installation Intricacy
Expertise and meticulous preparation are necessary to install a concrete trench drain correctly. Inadequate drainage capacity or water pooling are drainage issues that might result from improper installation.
- Visual Appeal
In residential or commercial areas where aesthetics matter, trench drains may appear unattractive, despite their practicality.
- Potential for Damage
Trench drains can be damaged when subjected to large loads, such as when vehicles drive over them. Heavy machinery or regions with high traffic volumes are specific causes for concern.
- Sediment Accumulation
A concrete trench drain can become less effective and even clog up with the gradual accumulation of debris and sediment. Preventing this issue requires regular maintenance.
- Cost
Installing a concrete trench drain can be expensive, particularly if extensive digging is required. Customization and specialized materials might drive up the cost even more.
Despite these limitations, trench drains’ versatility and efficiency make them a popular alternative for managing surface water in numerous applications.
How much does a trench drain cost?
Installation difficulty, dimensions (depth, width, and length), material, and extra features (such as channels or grates) all play a role in the final price tag for a concrete trench drain. A simple trench drain system, not including installation fees, may cost anything from $20 to $100 per linear foot. It would be wise to seek quotes from contractors and suppliers who can address your unique requirements and needs for a more precise idea of the costs involved.
Conclusion
After digging a hole, positioning the drain channel, checking the drainage slope, backfilling, and securing the drain, you can install a concrete trench drain. If you want the drainage system to last for years and work perfectly, you must regularly clean the grates and drain channels.