Low-profile linear drain

[wilsonr]

Hi all,

Does anyone have any recommendations for a linear drain with the following properties:

- low profile i.e. as narrow and inconspicuous as possible
- built-in fall
- cost effective i.e. will receive almost no footfall so does not need to be heavy duty, etc

It is for my patio and I need approx. 3 metres in a straight run that I can connect into an underground drain system.

Best regards

Rod

[Tony McC]

What you need is a slot drain - a form of linear channel that relies on a simple 8-10mm slot rather than a 100mm wide grating. However, these are nowhere near as cheap as "standard" linear channels.

Secondly, with only 3 linear metres required, there is absolutely no need for an in-built fall. You could install the drain "flat" and rely on the build-up of water within the channel to drive the drainage.

Finally, slot drains are typically used for pedestrian schemes in commercial areas and, occasionally, for low-speed, light-use car parks, so they are all Class B or above.

I think you're goiung to struggle to find anything that meets all of your requirements.

[wilsonr]

Thanks Tony,

I was originally thinking of laying it flat as you stated, but got distracted when I found there where types with a built-in fall!

Having thought about it a bit more, maybe 100mm width is acceptable, but it is a pity nobody does one at say 50mm.

Out of the standard 100mm linear drains, do you know which makes are the most cost-effective when all is needed is class A strength?

I am based on the Wirral and am looking for someone who supplies these drains ... any ideas?

Best regards

Rod

[Tony McC]

B&Q do a simple placky version complete with tinny grating for around a tenner a metre. The grating can't cope with owt heavier than a kid's bike, but for small patio projects, it's not too bad.

[wilsonr]

Thanks Tony,

On your page http://www.pavingexpert.com/drain06.htm you show a picture of a white plastic 'economy' linear drain.

Do you remember what make this is as I would like a channel exactly like this so I could then purchase a more expensive and better looking grating to go on top.

Best regards

Rod

[Tony McC]

From memory, that was a Marley drain and although I label it as "economy" it isn't the cheapest; it's just cheaper than a unit fabricated from polymer concrete. You will really struggle to find owt cheaper that the Recyfix drains sold by B&Q for atenner per metre.

[wilsonr]

Hi Tony,

Many thanks for all your help on this.

Best regards

Rod