There are a range of features and product options to consider when designing surface water drainage systems, below is a summary of these broken into 5 quick points to help product selectors find the best solution. For more information on each point discussed below please reach out to us or take a look at our product listings.
1. Install Application
Features of drainage systems for commercial or residential applications can vary remarkably. Attributes such as grate lockdowns (recommended for commercial projects) and considerations around install process and type/amount of traffic it will be subjected to.
The topography and type of area it is required to drain, if the surface has a fall towards a centralised point a Storm Series or Pit / Sump would be an excellent choice. If the surface has a fall in one direction, or the area dictates, a channel such as Allproof’s Polymer Concrete (PC) would be appropriate.
Other systems interacting or adjoined to the drain also need consideration, i.e. door/window joinery may have a drainage path under the sill; a traditional 3 sided channel installed as a level threshold could block these. Allproof’s Perimeter Drain would be applicable here.
2. Hydraulic Performance
As above the surface can dictate the type of strip drain, a narrow slot drain (15mm) would likely be hydraulically bridged if installed at the bottom of a steep slope. A wider channel such as a PC with cast iron grate would provide better catchment. Polymer concrete channels also come in a range of depths with sloped joining channels connecting the various depths, this allows a single channel / trench drain to cater for large areas.
Grate open area plays a key role in hydraulics, some grates may have larger open areas but smaller individual openings. Smaller openings can be prone to blockage but might be required for other characteristics. Maintenance schedules should be considered if this is a concern.
3. Performance Features
Pedestrian and vehicle traffic must be considered, load class ratings (AS3996) should be referenced to ensure the drains will be suitable for the type of traffic. For pedestrian traffic other features such as heelproof grate openings (less than 8mm) and slip resistance (AS4586) should also be considered.
4. Environment
When selecting materials it is important to consider the life of the product in the environment, drainage products are exposed to large amounts of moisture by nature of their application. Materials such as cast iron will react naturally to the environment, it is aesthetic and does not affect performance. In high traffic applications oxidisation will stabilise quicker, leaving a natural dull dark brown patina. A glass filled nylon or polypropylene grate will keep its black finish.
In marine applications Allproof recommends 316 grade stainless steel and for additional protection electropolishing is an option.
5. Sustainability
Arguably one of the most important factors to consider, has the selected system been manufactured with sustainability in mind? Allproof’s plastic pits, Domestic and Commercial Channel’s are made from 100% recycled material. Additionally Allproof’s main production facility is powered by solar panels. Allproof firmly believes the process is as important as the product.
Surface Water Drainage Products
