How to Install Channel Drain Systems

A channel drain removes surface water from your driveway, patio or garden, preventing flooding and overspill, and controlling water flow around your property. If you are installing new paving, it’s important to consider drainage solutions, as this will help to prolong the life of the paving stones.

While loose gravel provides natural drainage for landscaping, materials like block paving have the drawback of requiring a good sub base layer and drainage channels prior to installation.

Here are the two main driveway drainage solutions to consider for your driveway. Read on for the types of materials to consider, and advice on how to install channel drains on your property.

Concrete patio and driveway drainage

Concrete channels are a traditional choice for a driveway or patio drainage system. They are either available as pre-cast channels, or are poured and cast in place. While precast concrete requires less work on site, pre-cast channels can be trickier to transport.

Both precast and cast-in-place are excellent options, but for your driveway or patio drainage system the most common method of installation is to use pre-cast drain channels.

Plastic drainage channels

Ready-made plastic channels are the most convenient driveway drainage system, and a popular options for homeowners looking to install their own driveway drainage solution. Our drainage channels are made from polyolefin, a thermoplastic that delivers outstanding strength and high abrasion resistance, while also being resistant to chemicals and mildew.

Compared to concrete, polyolefin withstands chemical damage much more effectively, extending the life of the drain channel.

Plastic is also a lightweight option, making them much easy to manoeuvre and work with. With our Mini Channel™ Drains, installation is made simple thanks to the quick fix design. The components snap together easily for instant connection, and it’s possible to cut the channel and plastic grates exactly to size.

How to install channel drains yourself

Here’s how to install channel drains using our convenient Mini Channel™ Drain product:

1. Dig a trench to make way for your driveway drainage system, allowing for at least 50mm of compacted sand as a base, and a minimum width of 100mm for backfill of concrete on either side.
2. Place the first channel drain piece at the lowest point of the run – this will make the most of the slope and ensure rainwater runs off into the channel.
3. Connect the next piece using the integral slot and groove on either end, and allow them to click into place.
4. When you get to the last piece, use a hacksaw to cut to size if necessary.
5. Install the grate provided and then use a silicone sealant on the joints and end caps to improve durability of the system.
6. Cover the grating with tape before pouring concrete to fill the sides of the trench, finishing 2mm above the surface of the grate.
7. Allow at least 72 hours for the concrete to cure before allowing vehicles can drive over.

For full product details, head over to our drainage channel product page.