Channel Trench Drain, Box Drain – What Do You Need for the Next Big Wet?

Summer is almost upon us, and in Brisbane, this usually means heavy rainfall. After the past few years of wet summers and flooding, drainage can become an issue in many Brisbane homes, so it’s important to look for ways to help to mitigate this. Channel drains, box drains, French drains – there’s so many options! So, which one should you choose? Salmon Plumbing can help you make the best decision to help lessen the risk of flooding to your home this summer.

What Are the Different Types of Drains, and What Are They Used For?

Drains are crucial for managing and redirecting water flow during extreme weather events and preventing damage caused by flooding. They come in a variety of types that can suit different environments and property types, so it can be difficult to know which will suit your property best. Some of these drainage systems are more effective than others at redirecting water, while others require trenches to be dug. These are the most common types of drains used in Brisbane:

Channel or Trench Drains

A channel or trench drain is a long drain designed to redirect surface water and carry it away. Usually, these drains consist of a long narrow trench with a grated cover that allows for debris like leaves and branches to be caught while the water flows easily away. This trench then directs the water to an underground drainage system. These types of drains are often used around commercial buildings and pools, anywhere where a large volume of water needs to be safely redirected.

Box Drains

A box drain, also called a basin drain or a catch basin, is an underground rectangular drain used to collect and redirect storm water from driveways and footpaths. It usually has a flat stone or brick cover. These drains are set into the ground at a low point on your property and catch and drain debris to prevent pipes downstream from clogging. These are commonly used around homes.

French Drain

Simple and effective, French drains consist of a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that allows water to flow away from flooded areas. French drains are particularly effective at preventing water from pooling around the foundation of your property. These drains are also known as subsurface drainage systems and are very common around homes.

Swale

Swale drains are basically a ditch lined with grass, which acts to slow and control the runoff water. This helps to prevent flooding and helps to avoid overwhelming stormwater drain systems. As the swale drain is shallow, the water runoff slows down and gradually filters into the soil. This is less harmful overall to the surrounding area and is a gentler option, usually used near landscaping.

Which Drains Are Most Effective in Flood-Prone Areas?

Flood-prone areas can face extreme weather events that often cause significant damage to properties, and so it’s important for people to know how they can protect their home from flood damage. Persistent flooding can cause issues like soil erosion, issues with the foundation, and loss of landscaping, as well as damage to the building itself. The need for effective draining solutions in areas like these are paramount to diverting excess water and keeping flood damage to a minimum.

As we’ve seen in recent times, Brisbane is a flood-prone city and often experiences extreme flooding events – sometimes even multiple times throughout the year. Homeowners need to ensure they have the proper drainage systems in place to suit. As we’ve discussed above, there are several drainage solutions on offer, but the best drain to help manage water flow and mitigate the risk of flooding is probably the trench or channel drain. Box drains catch water in one specific spot to drain away, while trench drains can potentially catch water for the entire length of your driveway or other large area and divert the water away. This makes it much more effective in moving larger quantities of water. These drains are also made of durable materials like polypropylene, stainless steel, or concrete, which can withstand heavy flowing water and harsh treatment.

For more information on drainage systems or to book an appointment, contact Salmon Plumbing before Brisbane’s next Big Wet!