Three Material Options for Channel Drainage Construction

Posted on: 21 March 2017

Channel or trench drains are advantageous structures for both residential and commercial application. Basically, they are highly effective in dealing with surface runoff because they have a linear design and can be installed in long runs. This property is particularly useful if you want to improve the stormwater drainage in a large paved area. If you are thinking about building linear drains in your property, there are some important aspects that you must evaluate for a successful project. One of these factors is the construction material; this choice will affect performance, longevity and project costs. Here are the primary types of materials to consider when building new channel drains.

Poured and Precast Concrete

Concrete is an ideal material for trench drainage construction because of its high strength. This option is also resistant to damage from high pressure and mechanical stress. In addition, concrete is a relatively economical choice for both individuals and companies. If you choose to construct concrete linear drains, you can choose between poured and precast concrete. As implied, poured concrete is prepared onsite and poured in the excavated ground to create the channel. This choice is inexpensive, and it is convenient because it presents extensive design flexibility. On the other hand, precast concrete is moulded and cured in controlled factory settings, so it has higher strength and will be more durable. Both are suitable, so your decision will depend on preference, budget and property configuration.

Plastic Channel Drains

The popularity of plastic channel drains has risen extensively due to the low price of purchase. In general, these types of trench products are manufactured in specialty factories and supplied in modular form. Typically, they are made from common plastics, such as high density polyethylene and propylene. These materials are widely available, hence their inexpensive nature. They are also lightweight structures, which means that transportation and installation will be easy. In addition, plastic is nonporous, unlike concrete. This means that you will not need to be concerned about premature water damage. Unfortunately, plastic materials are prone to mechanical damage, so high pressure or general stress could lead to breakage of the drainage channel.

Polymer Concrete

Polymer concrete is a composite material which provides the benefits of both concrete and plastic. This material is essentially a type of concrete which is manufactured by using plastic resin as the binder instead of cement. The resulting product has the strength of concrete ensuring prolonged durability and exceptional performance. The plastic content reduces the permeability of concrete, eliminating the risk of accelerated water damage.

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