How To Use Strip Drains For Effective Water Management

Uncontrolled surface water poses an ongoing threat to residential and commercial properties alike. Whether managing daily outdoor washdowns, pool splashback, or seasonal rainfall, unmanaged runoff quickly pools on flat hardstands, saturates soil against footings, and damages exterior wall finishes.

So, how does a strip drain work? A strip drain intercepts surface water along a linear channel and directs it towards an outlet or stormwater system. Understanding this process helps ensure proper placement, sizing and installation for effective water management.

Step 1: Assess how water moves across the site

Identify where rainfall lands, the direction it travels and where it collects. Consider the catchment size, existing surface levels and low points near buildings, paths or boundaries.

This assessment reveals the natural runoff path and helps identify where water should be intercepted before it reaches an area in need of protection.

Step 2: Position the drain across the runoff path

Place the strip drain across the direction of water movement so it forms an interception line. A drain positioned beside the flow path may capture only part of the runoff, allowing water to continue across the surface.

The most effective location is generally between the catchment and the entrance, with the low point or adjoining area protected.

Step 3: Direct surface falls towards the channel

A drain cannot collect water that does not reach its inlet. The surrounding surface should fall towards the channel without creating dips where water can collect elsewhere.

Falls should guide runoff towards the usable drain length rather than concentrating it at one end. This allows the channel to intercept water more evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Match the drain to the catchment

The selected channel needs to suit the runoff expected from the catchment. Consider its size, local rainfall, surface type and water entering from adjoining areas.

The grate or slot must provide suitable inlet capacity. Expected pedestrian or vehicle traffic should also inform the required materials, dimensions and load classification.

Step 5: Provide a clear discharge route

Captured water needs somewhere suitable to go. The channel should connect to an appropriate outlet, pit or stormwater system that can receive the expected flow.

A clear inlet will not prevent ponding if the outlet is restricted or undersized. The complete route, from the surrounding surface, through the channel, to the discharge point, must operate as a single system.

Step 6: Keep the drainage path unobstructed

Leaves, sediment and other debris can restrict water entering or travelling through the channel. Inspect the grate or slot, channel and outlet regularly, particularly after storms or during seasons with heavy leaf fall.

Remove accumulated material and look for slow discharge, overflow or water bypassing the drain. These signs may indicate an obstruction or a broader capacity issue that requires assessment.

Plan an effective strip drainage system with ACO

Knowing how a strip drain works is only one part of effective water management. Successful strip drainage also depends on coordinating runoff direction, drain position, surface falls, capacity and discharge. ACO offers drainage systems for residential, commercial and infrastructure applications, supported by technical information and project design services.

Explore ACO’s strip drain range to identify a system suited to the site and its water management requirements.