Channel drains are a common construction item used around the world for a variety of purposes. You may also hear them called trench drains or linear drains, but how does channel drainage work?
The simplest explanation of how drainage channels work is based on gravity. Accordingly, channel drains should always be positioned at a point where surface water is likely to roll towards (i.e. not uphill!).
Linear drainage systems drain water along their entire length, rather than at one point, as a gully does. They are made up of an enclosed channel with some form of grating over the top.
The main purpose of a channel drain is to remove surface water away from a selected area. This helps to prevent flooding and overspilling. These drains are also used to control water flow in an area by reducing the stress being put on the system. So selecting the right flood defence product is key to flood prevention.
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Types and applications of channel drainage
There are two basic types of channel drains: those with built-in falls and those that maintain a regular depth along their entire length.
- Built-in falls channel drains: Those with built-in falls tend to be used to drain large, flat areas such as car parks.
- Regular depth channel drains: The ‘regular depth’ type is used for short lengths of drain, and on areas with a natural slope or fall.
Here at Drainage Superstore, we have a wide range of channel drainage solutions available. These range from basic half-metre or metre-long concrete units for use on private driveways to stainless steel units with medical uses.
What channel drain sizes are available?
Channel drains come in a variety of sizes, from 50mm units for roof drainage to 250mm deep motorway drains. They are designed using a variety of materials, including:
- Polymer concrete
- Wet-press concrete
- HDPE
- Stainless steel
And many more! The end use of the drain will determine which type is most suitable. Check out our guide on how to select the right channel drain before your purchase.
There are also a number of accessories that will be required for certain projects. We supply a wide range, including sump units, access and corner units, end caps, and outlet adaptors for channel drains.
You may also need to consider what type of gutter is best for your project and find out more about additional drainage solutions.
For guidance on soil and waste pipes and how rainwater harvesting works, check out our website or contact us directly.
Don’t hesitate to visit our how-to guides to find a guide on how to install an ACO drain and understand a common query: how do you know if you have a collapsed drain?
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