Aco drainage or Channel drainage?

In this article, we're going to explore a topic that often comes up: Aco drainage versus channel drainage. Many people mistakenly believe these are two different things, but in reality, they are not. If you’re uncertain about either product, keep reading to hopefully clarify any questions you might have and, at the very least, gain a better understanding of both.

What is the Difference Between Aco Drainage and Channel Drainage?

Let's start by clearing up any confusion regarding the differences between Aco drainage and channel drainage.

Aco is the brand name of a leading manufacturer of channel drainage. The confusion arises because the brand has become so dominant in the channel drainage market that the product itself is commonly referred to by its brand name. In essence, there is no distinct difference between Aco drainage and channel drainage—Aco drainage is just channel drainage with a reputation! Think of it as the Ferrari of the channel drainage world. Whether you choose a high-end branded product or a standard one, the functionality remains the same. The only real difference is the premium price tag attached to the brand. This is important to know if you're looking to save some money on your project.

Now that the 'difference' between the two has been clarified, let's dive into the functionality of channel drainage.

What Do Channel Drains Actually Do?

Channel drainage is a linear system designed to remove water that runs off from an area into the underground drainage system. It functions similarly to a guttering system, except it sits on the edge of a ground-level project rather than on the edge of a roof. For instance, if you have a walkway with a slight incline, you might consider installing channel drainage to create an easy path for water to flow away.

The system operates on the principle of gravity and is typically placed at the end of an inclined or ramped area. The channel drain units themselves are built into the driveway with a slight incline to align with the underground drainage system, such as soakaway crates.

Will the Channel Drain Be Able to Cope with Heavy Loads?

When purchasing channel drainage, it’s important to be aware of the load ratings as each one is assigned a specific class. For example, the A15 class indicates a load rating of 1 1/2 tonnes, which is the most commonly purchased class and is suitable for driveways and patios.

If you'd like to learn more about loading classes, you can check out our blog where we discuss this topic further here.

A Quick Guide on What to Remember When Installing Channel Drainage

1. Firstly, the channel drain should be set on a bed of 50mm of concrete.
2. Always mark a line 3mm below where the finished surface will be.
3. When laying the concrete base, ensure it is level with enough space for the channel drainage unit.
4. When connecting your channel drains, remember that they are 1 meter long. If they don't fit into the area you're fitting them, the best course of action is to use a hacksaw to adjust their size.
5. Don't forget to use either end caps or a connection that can direct runoff water into a drainage system. You can choose either method based on your preference.
6. When laying the drainage channel on the concrete, ensure there is a slight incline toward the drain outlet.
7. Before fitting the grating, replace any pavers around the channel drains, ensuring the grating is at least 3mm below the level of the paving.

Buying a Drainage Channel at EasyMerchant!

At EasyMerchant, we offer both domestic and heavy-duty drainage channels. We have the perfect solution for every type of project, whether you're working on your garden or a loading bay. Our materials will help ensure your project is completed successfully.

We use a fast delivery service to try and ensure you receive your goods when you need them. If you have any questions about our products, feel free to reach out, and we'll do our best to assist you!

Shop Drainage Channel:

DekDrain Edge Slot Drain Accessory Pack

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