TDS Drainage Glossary

Most grates have a slotted pattern that is positioned perpendicular to the trench drain system. Grates with a transverse slotted or longitudinal pattern have slots that run lengthwise rather than across the width of the drainage channels. These grates, depending upon the placement and application, can provide a more polished appearance. They are typically designed for areas needing heel-proof, bicycle safe or ADA-compliant grates.

Sometimes referred to as a debris basket, this term refers to an apparatus that sits within a catch basin that catches debris. This device prevents the drainage channel from getting blocked. They are typically made of plastic, stainless steel, or filter fabric. It is important to schedule maintenance to ensure that the baskets are emptied to allow for continuous flow.

Trench drains are linear drain systems used to divert stormwater and other fluids to desired locations. There is a multitude of related terms including strip drain, channel drains, gutter, canal, or gully drains. Trench drain systems are available in channels made of stainless steel, polymer concrete, poured concrete, fiberglass, and plastics.

Trench drain systems are linear drainage channels that redirect rainfall or other fluids to desired locations. There is a multitude of related terms including strip drain, channel drains, gutter, canal, or gully drains. Trench drain systems are available in channels made of stainless steel, polymer concrete, poured concrete, fiberglass, and plastics. Need help planning a project? Call our experts at 610-882-3630 or complete this form.

Trench formers are one of two types of poured-in-place concrete trench drains. Trench forming systems use frame grates and a disposable pre-sloped form used to mold the concrete to form the drain channel. The other type of poured channels involves frame and grate systems that require a contractor to build the trench form that usually consists of a wood structure. Frame and grate systems can be made of a variety of materials including fiberglass. They provide a DIY trench drain system that allows flexibility in the width, depth, and slope of the channels. Click here to view install instructions for a fiberglass frame and grate system.

Trough drains are linear trench drain systems used to divert stormwater and other fluids to desired locations. There is a multitude of related terms including strip drain, channel drains, gutter, canal, gully, or simply, trench drains. Trench drain systems are available in channels made of stainless steel, polymer concrete, poured concrete, fiberglass, and plastics.