How does Channel Drainage work?

You’ve more than likely heard of ‘channel drainage’ or ‘linear drainage’ before, but do you know what it is and how it works?

Channel drainage is used worldwide for several applications - be it preventing ponding and heavy-run off or eliminating the risk of flash floods and downpours. It’s popular for its simple design and can be installed discreetly or to make a statement.

A channel drain usually consists of a channel and grating, however, you may need a quad box, sump unit and end caps, which we can help you to find, here at Total Pipeline Systems.

Here’s how channel drainage works:

When it comes to removing surface water from your driveway, patio, swimming pool, garden or water feature, channel drainage is ideal. It prevents overspill and allows you to control water flow - ultimately reducing the stress that’s put on the system.

There is nothing complicated about how channel drains work and there is no need for couplers. The way they work is based on gravity. Any drain should sit flush with tarmac or concrete paving, so pedestrians and car drivers can easily walk or drive over it.

Please note: Your channel drain needs to be positioned where surface water can roll towards it because rainwater won’t travel uphill!

The A15 HDPE drains we supply at Total Pipes are available in 1mtr lengths and designed to slot into each other using grooves.

When choosing a drain for your channel drainage, you have two options: the lightweight HDPE drain with HDPE grating or the galvanised grating which comes at a higher price but is more sophisticated. Both types are designed to last a long time, it simply depends on the finish you’re looking to achieve and what your budget allows.

Once you’ve decided which drains you need, you then need to think about how you’re going to connect them to the drainage system.

110mm drain pipes can be connected to the system using caps. To make it easier for you, we provide outlet caps and end caps which are designed to fit 110mm drainage perfectly and are available to purchase for an affordable price. Check them out here.

Quad boxes are functional. They enable you to connect corners and junctions quickly and easily. We supply them with HDPE or galvanised grating to suit the style of your channel drains - making them aesthetically pleasing.

To eliminate odours and to filter dirt and debris, our sump units can be fitted to your channel drainage. The sump will need emptying every now and again (depending on the amount of rainfall and debris) to ensure that your drains function correctly.

Overall, channel drains work effectively. The enclosed channel with grating over the top prevents serious floods damage and allows water to drain efficiently.

If you need to know more about how channel drainage works, feel free to get in touch with the team here at Total Pipes. We are always on hand to help and advise, so be sure to call us on 01254 382000 or email us at sales@totalpipes.co.uk today.