What is a Channel and Trench Drain in Los Angeles?

You have probably seen them. Channel and trench drains are usually installed near driveways or sidewalks to effectively handle large amounts of water. They usually have a long, rectangular opening covered by a slotted grate to prevent large debris from entering the drain channel. Water collects in a trench drain and is diverted to another outlet, usually a sewage system or a cistern. You could even divert the water to a rain barrel.

Since they can handle so much water, they are ideal for flood-prone areas. Of course, Los Angeles doesn’t seem like a flood-prone area, but in fact, the city has seen record-setting rainfall in 2022 and 2023. Not only that, but Los Angeles seemingly gets all that water in the span of two to three months.

Channel and trench drains are usually installed by driveways and garages or near pools and showers. They are also a good fit for industrial facilities and facilities that house a lot of animals. Channel and trench drains help keep the kennels clean.

How do you install a channel and trench drain in Los Angeles?

The best way to install a trench drain? Call a professional. A licensed contractor will have all the equipment necessary to complete the project.

As you get ready to install your trench drain, your contractor will consult with you regarding the system’s run, slope and width. You’ll have to determine how wide your drain should be. As a rule of thumb, the wider the drain, the more water it can handle. The run refers to how long the channel is that carries the water away. The slope is how angled the trench is. Since trench drain systems depend on gravity to carry water away, your system will need to gently slope down to the disposal area.

How much will it cost? It usually costs $30 to $100 per linear foot to install a channel and trench drain, depending on the complexity of the project.

What kind of channel and trench drain should I install in Los Angeles?

There are a few different types of trench drains to choose from when you’re getting ready to install your system.

There are a few different types of trench drains to choose from when you’re getting ready to install your system. 

• Concrete Trench Drains: Concrete trench drains are best for areas where you have a lot of cars and trucks driving over them. You can have them cast in place, meaning the concrete is poured on site after the drain is installed. This type of concrete trench drain is more labor intensive, but it’s also custom to your space. You can also install a pre-cast drain. These are made in a factory. These pieces cut down on installation time and labor costs. They also offer a more uniform slope.

• HDPE Trench Drains: Another type of trench drain you can install is high-density polyethylene or HDPE. These pipes are made from lightweight, but highly durable plastic. If you install an HDPE drain, you will have to reinforce it with a concrete encasement. However, the material is more lightweight, meaning installation is faster and easier.  Also, because the polymer piping doesn’t absorb water, the water in the pipes will not seep into the soil around it. That makes polymer piping a better option in industrial settings. 

After you choose the best type of trench drain material for your project, then it’s time to choose the grating materials.

• Cast Iron: This decorative option is also cost-effective and durable. It’s probably the most common type of material for trench drain grates. While they do look good, they will rust over time and that rust could stain the surrounding concrete. 

• Ductile Iron: These grates come in a variety of decorative options, with the added bonus of the strength of steel. 

• Stainless and galvanized steel: These are less prone to rust. Because they are harder to cast, they are not offered in as many decorative options as ductile iron or cast iron. However, many homeowners like the sleek look and shiny appearance. 

• Polymer: Hard plastic grates are also available in a wide array of colors. 

When you’re choosing the trench drain material and grates, it’s best to consult with your contractor. They will determine what type of material best suits your situation. Trench drains near swimming pools will require different materials than an industrial yard. 

Ready to install a channel and trench drain? Save yourself the headaches of installing it yourself and call. We have the knowledge and know-how to assess your home’s drainage needs and install the best drain to keep that pesky water away from your home.