Site & User Requirements for Trench Drain Systems

• Shallow Installations – If depth is restricted due to underground utilities or structural limitations, a low-profile trench drain system may be required.

• Deep Installations – For high-flow applications, deeper trench drain channels allow for increased water capacity and improved hydraulic efficiency.

• Exposure to Harsh Chemicals – Facilities like food processing plants, breweries, and chemical plants may require polymer concrete or stainless steel channels for corrosion resistance.

• Extreme Temperatures – For areas with high heat (industrial zones) or freeze-thaw cycles (outdoor environments), selecting the right material ensures durability and prevents cracking or degradation.

• ADA Compliance – Public spaces, sidewalks, and commercial areas may require trench drain grates that are wheelchair-friendly with slot openings of less than ½ inch to comply with ADA regulations.

• Anti-Slip Grates – Locations prone to wet conditions, such as pool decks, breweries, and outdoor walkways, benefit from grates with textured surfaces or slip-resistant coatings.

• Bike-Safe Grates – Parks, bike paths, and pedestrian zones may require bike-proof trench grates with narrow slot openings to prevent bicycle tires from getting caught.

• Heel-Proof Grates – Commercial buildings, shopping centers, and urban streetscapes often need heel-proof grateswith small openings to ensure high-heel safety while maintaining drainage efficiency.

• Locking & Bolted Grates – High-traffic and high-security areas, such as airports, transportation hubs, and industrial sites, may require bolted-down trench grates to prevent unauthorized removal or displacement.

• Heavy Load Capacity – Driveways, loading docks, and parking garages need grates rated for Class C or D loads, ensuring durability under heavy vehicle traffic.

• Decorative Grates – Public spaces, luxury residences, and high-end commercial properties can enhance aesthetics with architecturally designed decorative trench grates that complement the surroundings.

• Custom Colors & Finishes – Some projects require customized grates in stainless steel, bronze, or powder-coated finishes to match the visual appeal of the space.

• Forklift-Rated & Extra Heavy-Duty Loads – Warehouses, distribution centers, and industrial facilities with frequent forklift traffic need trench drains rated for Class D or higher to withstand heavy rolling loads.

• Aircraft-Grade & Airport Applications – Airports, tarmacs, and transportation hubs require trench drain grates that can handle extreme loads, such as those from airplanes, cargo vehicles, and heavy-duty transport trucks. These applications often require Class E or F-rated grates for maximum durability.