Trench Drain: Uses, Problems, and Solutions

Got trench drain problems? Do you want to get it cleaned and unclogged? Are you thinking of a maintenance because you suspect a drain problem?

Whichever is the case, this article will help you learn more about this particular type of drain. You will also learn about how it works and why does it encounter certain issues. No worries though. That’s because these issues are easy to solve especially if you hire drain professionals to do the job.

Anyway, we’ll first discuss about what a trench drain is and its function to residential, commercial, and industrial settings. In addition, we’ll also explore the different problems and the solutions to make the drain system working optimally. Finally, we’ll also talk about trench drain installation, repair, inspection, maintenance, and cleaning. Let’s start.

What is a trench drain?

Some people simply call it floor drain (although there are other types of floor drains). That’s because it’s usually installed on the floor. It has a trough and channel which allows the water to go down and flow through.

You can find this floor drain in many areas including parking lots, driveways and sidewalks. This floor drain is a straightforward way to drain water.

Many people confuse trench drains with French drains. The key difference is that the French drains are hidden and buried underneath rocks or earth. French drain is effective in preventing sub-surface water collection. This is very handy when heavy rainfall suddenly occurs. It will protect the external foundations and basements from accumulating too much water.

On the other hand, trench drains usually have grates instead of the rocks as cover. These grates filter bigger debris from further falling down. This way, you prevent the large objects from falling down and blocking the water.

How does a trench drain work?

Commonly, you’ll find French drains around homes. After all, their purpose is to protect the basements and external foundations.

On the other hand, trench drains are common in parking lots, driveways, and sidewalks at both residences and commercial buildings. It’s especially useful and neat for multi-level establishments. The drain system can neatly collect the water from the upper levels and bring it down to a better place.

In airports, industrial settings and urban landscapes, trench drains are important. They have a modern look in contrast to the French drains which require earth and rocks.

Why is this drain system important in homes and businesses?

Almost every cemented or urban area is at risk of flooding. Maybe it’s a sudden heavy rainfall or a major pipe leak. It can also be about a chemical spill.

Whichever is the case, trench drains are essential in controlling the surface water. These drains divert away the excess water from the surface. As a result, you prevent the accumulation of water on the surface. The water will then be redirected away instead of accumulating in undesirable areas.

In homes, a reliable drain system can prevent flooding or any accumulation of water on the floors of driveways, sidewalks, garages, and parking lots. The drains will be useful in diverting away rainfall or just water being used for car wash.

The benefit is the same with businesses and commercial buildings. The drains are even more important in these settings because we’re talking about a greater surface area and more users. If the area gets flooded, more people will be affected as a result.

Trench drain installation

That’s why many families and businesses install trench drains in their locations. This way, they could protect their properties, cars, and other assets from the accumulation of water.

In many businesses and buildings, trench drains could be essential. It might already be a natural part of construction to meet requirements and lower the risks of flooding.

Whichever is the case, the drains should effectively drain away the water, avoid water backup, and keep the surfaces with minimal water. This way, the place will remain sanitary and usable for the employees and the public. This is especially important in airports and public parking lots and driveways.

What are the common issues and problems?

This type of floor drain can also experience clogs just like with other types of drain systems. Debris and dirt can find their way into the trough and channel. Maybe it’s just the dirt or the water carries the debris.

Often, there are steel grates or other filters that prevent objects and bigger debris from coming into the drain. But as years pass by, the debris can accumulate. It’s also possible that the trench drains themselves get warped or damaged. Those damages may be hindering the free flow of water.

If there are clogs or damages, it’s possible that the water can accumulate in the surface. Worse, there might be a water backup because the water has nowhere to go.

In any case, you need to fix those problem right away. This is important especially when rainy season comes or you expect a heavy snow precipitation. Once the snow melts, the water will suddenly accumulate.

Trench drain cleaning and repair

This is where professional trench drain cleaning and repair will help. This service will make the trench drains working at their best again. This way, you prevent water accumulation on the roads, driveways, and other urban areas.

What happens during drain cleaning? Professionals use powerful tools to get rid of the clogs. They also perform thorough inspections to properly diagnose the problem.

If there are warps or damages, drain professionals can also do the drain repairs or replacements. They can do either partial or full drain pipe replacements depending on the severity of the situation.

Professional drain services in Toronto

Where can you hire reliable drain professionals? Here at AAA Drain Experts, we perform drain repairs and replacements of all kinds. We also perform drain cleaning, excavation, and maintenance.

For over 15 years, many Toronto residents and businesses rely on us when it comes to their drain repair needs. We do each job quickly and efficiently. We also clean up the site after the job.

Call us now at +1 416-858-4444 for a free consultation.