Why Trench Drains Are Important

Trench drains play a crucial role in the drainage system of any structure. Their primary purpose is to direct water away from affected areas, mitigating the risk of water damage and the accumulation of standing water. They are used in various settings, such as commercial properties, roadways, driveways, parking lots, and industrial facilities, to ensure efficient water management and maintain safe, dry surfaces.

If you find yourself amid a real estate development or home renovation project, it's crucial to consider the location and placement of your drainage systems to ensure the long-term safety and security of your investments. 

What Are Trench Drains?

Trench drains are a type of surface drainage system implemented in locations prone to water pooling on the surface. The accumulation of water in these areas can lead to harmful effects on building foundations, driveways, and various structures. Heavy-duty trench drains can efficiently redirect excess water to the appropriate locations. Additionally, a decorative trench grate covers the channel, allowing traffic to pass over it while enhancing the visual appeal of the landscape.

Types of trench drains include:

This kind of precast drain system is widely used. They are constructed from a variety of materials, including steel, fiberglass, plastic, and polymer concrete.

As the name implies, a specialized manufacturer typically produces it off-site. They can be customized and prepared for easy installation in the proper channel. Depending on the specifications, this trench drain is available in various sizes and configurations. Installation is typically less expensive and simpler.

This particular type involves using wood to build the framework, into which concrete is poured to create the necessary channels. Typically, the space required for this type is manually excavated. Unlike other trench drain types, this method relies heavily on manual labour, making it the most costly option.

How Does a Trench Drain System Work?

The primary purpose of trench drains is to efficiently manage water flow on surfaces prone to pooling or flooding. They consist of a long, narrow channel or trench installed into the ground, usually made of concrete or polymer. The trench is strategically positioned to collect and redirect water away from areas that can cause damage or create hazards. Water from rain, melting snow, or surface run-off is directed toward the trench, where it enters through a grate or slot cover. The grate allows water to flow into the trench, preventing debris or large objects from entering. The collected water is then channeled to designated catch basins or drainage points, effectively removing excess water and preventing standing water, flooding, and potential structural damage.

Role of the Grate

After installing the trench drain, a grate is placed over it for multiple purposes. Grates serve as protective barriers, preventing the accumulation of large objects and debris within the trench while also safeguarding pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists from accidentally stepping or rolling into the drain. Grates must meet the required load class to ensure optimal performance, just like the trench itself. There are various grate options available, each serving specific needs:

• Cast Iron: This is the most popular choice due to its exceptional strength, making it suitable for various applications.
• Ductile Iron: Like cast iron, it boasts high durability and strength.
• Stainless Steel: A rust resistant alloy, used mainly in corrosive environments.
• Galvanized Steel: Coated with zinc to prevent rust and enhance longevity.

When selecting grates, considerations extend beyond appearance, focusing on strength and safety features. Factors such as foot traffic, proximity to machinery, and daily pressure application are considered to ensure optimal functionality and safety.

What Is the Importance of a Drain System?

Utilizing trench drains offers significant benefits in managing water flow around a building, especially in regions prone to heavy rainfall or high water tables. Here are some benefits of a trench drain system:

Trench drains efficiently direct stormwater and run-off away from the foundation, making them a highly effective solution, especially in regions with substantial rainfall. Preventing excess water from accumulating around the foundation is crucial to avoid significant damage, making trench drains an essential feature. By strategically installing these drains at the foundation's base, they efficiently collect water and guide it toward designated drainage areas, thus preventing soil erosion and related problems.

Swamping, a frequent issue where water accumulates around the foundation, can lead to severe damage if not promptly resolved. Trench drains serve as an effective solution to reduce swamping by diverting water away from the building foundation, machinery, or documents. By keeping the surroundings dry, these drains play a crucial role in preventing cracks and other forms of damage. As a result, property owners can rest assured, knowing that stagnant water won't pose a threat.

Incorporating trench drains in drainage systems is effective in averting soil erosion, which can occur following heavy rainfall or prolonged water pooling in a specific area. The accumulation of water around the foundation can lead to soil erosion, potentially causing harm to the foundation itself.

Trench drains efficiently gather water and redirect it away, preventing its buildup and subsequent soil erosion. This protective measure safeguards the foundation and ensures that the surrounding landscape remains unaffected. Consequently, the ground retains its stability even during periods of moisture.

Negative slopes and inclines can result in a continuous influx of water toward the deep foundation of your property. Failing to address this problem adequately can lead to substantial water damage to the building. Fortunately, installing a trench drain for water management can effectively address these problems, ensuring the protection and preservation of your property value.

Chemical spillage can lead to harmful consequences for both the environment and human health. The challenging aspect is that the full extent of damage resulting from such spills is often unpredictable.

In industries like food processing, drug manufacturing, and beverage production, controlling hazardous chemicals is of utmost importance and cannot be left to chance. With the use of trench drains, you can effectively manage the flow of all substances produced during your commercial operations.

The longevity and value of your property is greatly influenced by its upkeep. Insufficient maintenance can lead to a reduced lifespan for your property. An outdoor trench drain system plays a significant role in determining property value and longevity. Uncontrolled excess water flow can cause continuous damage to the building, landscaping, and parking lot, resulting in frequent repair needs, each incurring varying expenses. The most prudent approach is to install proper drainage systems that effectively manage surface water flow.

Trench drains offer a comprehensive and effective solution to various drainage issues. When undertaking a construction project, it is crucial to consider incorporating trench drains into your drainage system to protect your foundation, prevent landscape damage, and enhance the overall value of your property.