Parking Structures & Elevated Parking Structure Trench Drains
Parking structures and elevated parking decks require durable, watertight drainage systems that prevent ponding, leakage, and structural deterioration. Constant exposure to vehicles, weather, de-icing salts, and vibration makes effective drainage critical to extending service life. TrenchDrainCo trench drain systems are engineered for high load performance, corrosion resistance, and waterproofing compatibility, ensuring long-term reliability in both open-air and multi-level parking environments.
Key Requirements
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Load Rating
Typically C250 to F900, depending on vehicle type and location.
• Ground-level and entrance lanes: D400–E600 for high traffic.
• Elevated decks and ramps: C250–D400 for cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
• Maintenance and delivery access zones: E600–F900 for service vehicles.
• Pedestrian walkways: A15–B125 with ADA-compliant, slip-resistant grates.
Drains must withstand dynamic loads, vibration, and movement between slab sections.
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Material Durability
Elevated parking structures face exposure to water, salts, UV, and temperature swings.
• Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) or Polymer Concrete channels for high compressive strength.
• Ductile-iron grates and frames for F900-rated load applications.
• Stainless steel edge rails and anchoring hardware for corrosion resistance.
• HDPE channels for lightweight installations on suspended slabs.
• Epoxy or resin coatings for chloride and chemical protection on exposed decks.
• Flexible waterproofing interfaces between channels and membranes to prevent leakage.
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Site Conditions
• Exposure to rainfall, snowmelt, and freeze–thaw cycles.
• Structural decks must maintain watertight integrity to prevent corrosion of reinforcement.
• Slope design (1–2%) directs runoff to trench drains and downspouts.
• Drains must connect to vertical risers or stormwater systems through deck penetrations with sealed terminations.
• In enclosed or partially covered structures, drainage systems should resist tire wear debris, oils, and detergents.
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User Requirements
• Load-bearing strength: Handle repetitive vehicular movement without deformation.
• Waterproof integration: Compatible with traffic coatings and elastomeric membranes.
• Corrosion resistance: Resist de-icing salts, fuel, and oils.
• Safety: Slip-resistant, ADA-compliant grates for pedestrian access zones.
• Noise control: Rattle-free, locking grate designs for quiet operation.
• Maintenance access: Removable grates and easy-clean channels for routine upkeep.
• Longevity: Designed for multi-decade structural performance and minimal maintenance.
Recommended TrenchDrainCo Systems
TrenchDrainCo FRC Parking Series
Heavy-duty fiber-reinforced concrete trench drain system rated D400–F900 for vehicular ramps and drive aisles.
TrenchDrainCo Stainless Structural Series
Stainless steel channels and grates for corrosion resistance and watertight performance on elevated decks.
TrenchDrainCo Polymer Concrete Deck System
Lightweight, watertight polymer channels ideal for integration with waterproof membranes.
TrenchDrainCo HDPE Parking Deck Series
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant option for retrofit or secondary deck drainage.
Engineering Notes
When designing trench drains for parking structures and elevated decks:
- Ensure watertight detailing at drain terminations, deck penetrations, and joint transitions.
- Select materials resistant to chloride attack and thermal expansion.
- Integrate with deck waterproofing systems and traffic coatings using compatible sealants.
- Use ductile-iron or stainless grates for ramps and high-load areas.
- For rooftop or open-air decks, include UV-stable and freeze–thaw-resistant components.
- Confirm flow capacity meets local stormwater design standards and deck slope tolerances.
- Employ locking grate mechanisms to resist vibration and noise.
Protect your structure. Prevent corrosion.
Contact TrenchDrainCo for a watertight trench drain system engineered for parking structures and elevated decks.
📞 Call us: 212-946-3798
📧 Email us: info@trenchdrainco.com
