Trench Drain Installation

Step 1, Harrowgate builds trench drains as accurately aligned structural and hydraulic components. We control outlet invert, channel elevation, concrete support, grate line, pavement tie-in, and waterproof transitions so water reaches the drain and wheels cross it without impact or edge breakdown.

Step 2, Hydraulic and loading review. The engineer establishes design flow, inlet length, channel size, outlet quantity, grate type, and downstream connection. We verify traffic direction, wheel type, turning, plows, forklifts, pedestrian access, sediment, and chemical exposure. These conditions select grate opening, material, fastening, and load class under the project design.

Step 3, Sawcutting and excavation. Existing concrete or asphalt is sawcut beyond the final encasement so ragged edges do not remain beside the frame. Excavation exposes the outlet and provides room for bedding, reinforcement, and full concrete support. Utilities are located, water is controlled, and adjacent slabs are protected from undermining.

Step 4, Outlet and channel setting. Outlet pipe, sump, catch basin, trap, or process connection is installed at the designed invert. Channels are assembled in flow direction, joints sealed, and sections braced to line and grade. Frames are set below adjacent high points but flush enough for smooth traffic. Factory slopes are not confused with field surface slope.

Step 5, Reinforcement and concrete encasement. Reinforcing steel, dowels, isolation, and anchorage follow the system and structural details. Concrete is placed evenly on both sides to avoid floating or twisting the channel, consolidated beneath flanges, and finished into the adjacent pavement plane. Grate spacers or protective covers preserve frame width during placement.

Step 6, Joints and waterproofing. Slab joints are coordinated so uncontrolled cracks do not run through channel corners. In parking structures or suspended slabs, membrane and waterstop details tie into the drain body and adjacent deck coating. Chemical or hygienic areas receive compatible sealants and cove treatment at the channel edge.

Step 7, Grates, testing, and restoration. After concrete reaches required strength, grates are installed in the correct sequence with locking devices and accessible fasteners. The channel is flushed, outlets observed, and low spots corrected. Asphalt, coating, resin floor, concrete, or pavers are reinstated with robust edge support before traffic returns.

Step 8, Turnover records channel model, grate sequence, load rating, outlet location, cleanouts, sumps, and concealed connection. Harrowgate removes construction debris and protects the system from concrete wash and paving material. Facility teams receive grate-lifting and cleaning access information because sediment, labels, shrink wrap, and winter grit can reduce inlet capacity long before the channel itself deteriorates.