Guide • Exterior Linear Drain System

Exterior Linear Drain System: The Complete Guide for Patios, Driveways, Plazas & Walkways

An Exterior Linear Drain System is a modular trench-style drainage channel that collects and moves surface water along a narrow line—ideal for tight spaces where traditional point drains struggle. In practical terms, it prevents puddles, protects slabs and pavers from heaving, and reduces slip hazards during storms.

Why Choose a Linear Drain Over a Point Drain?

Continuous capture (vs. point collection): Linear drains intercept water across an edge—like the bottom of a driveway, a garage threshold, or the low side of a patio—so water doesn’t have to “find” a single small grate.

Seamless integration: With a 4-inch internal width, this system integrates into landscaping and pedestrian areas without drawing attention. In plain English: you get strong drainage with a clean, minimal look that won’t distract from the design.

Reliable flow on long runs: Built-in options support continuous slope installations up to 130 feet, so water keeps moving to your outlet—even on flat sites where grades are tight.

Key Features (Explained Simply)

• Quick Installation: DrainLok® and QuickLok® boltless locking means fast grate removal and reattachment for cleanouts—no loose hardware to track.
• Secure Alignment: Anti-shunt lugs and numbered channels keep grates seated firmly and channels installed in the correct order for long-term stability.
• Customizable Grates: Choose mesh, slotted, perforated, or ductile iron, with ratings up to Load Class E when vehicle traffic or forklifts are in the mix.
• Durable Rails: Galvanized steel for value and strength; stainless steel for corrosion resistance and a premium finish near salt, pools, or coastal environments.

Where This System Excels

• Driveway thresholds & garage entries: Prevents water from migrating into the garage or pooling on the apron.
• Patios, pool decks, and courtyards: Keeps outdoor living areas drier and safer after storms or irrigation cycles.
• Commercial sidewalks & plazas: Flush look with reliable performance during peak rainfall and foot traffic.
• Wash-down zones & service yards: Compatible grate ratings up to Class E handle heavier loads when needed.

Sizing & Layout Tips (Step-by-Step)

1. Map the water path: Identify the gutter line where water naturally travels—along a slab edge, bottom of a ramp, or across a patio’s low side.
2. Pick channel width & depth: The 4" internal width suits most residential and light commercial flows; increase depth or add more outlets for higher-intensity rain events.
3. Plan the slope: Use pre-sloped or constant-depth channels to maintain continuous fall to the outlet—this system supports runs up to 130 ft.
4. Select a grate: Match style (mesh, slotted, perforated) and rating (up to Class E) to traffic and maintenance needs.
5. Choose rail material: Galvanized for value; stainless near chemicals, salt, or for a premium aesthetic.
6. Outlet strategy: Use end outlets or bottom knock-outs. Tie to storm piping or a dry well per local code.

Installation Overview (Pro-Friendly, DIY-Aware)

1. Trench & Base: Excavate to accommodate channel depth plus a concrete bedding (often 4–6" under and around, per manufacturer guidance).
2. Set Grade: Establish the run with a continuous fall toward the outlet. Pre-sloped channels simplify this step.
3. Place Channels: Install numbered channels in sequence; use alignment connectors where specified. Check heights against adjacent surfaces (pavers, concrete, tile).
4. Concrete Encasement: Backfill and encase per load requirements. Keep grates in during pour to maintain channel geometry.
5. Finalize & Seal: Remove/replace grates via DrainLok® or QuickLok®, connect outlet piping, and seal joints per local codes.

Case Study: Plaza Retrofit Eliminates Ponding in 48 Hours

Location: Mixed-use plaza, Mid-Atlantic • Problem: Seasonal ponding along a 90-ft façade created slip hazards and stained pavers. Limited slab fall prevented regrading without costly demo.

Solution: A 4" Exterior Linear Drain System with stainless steel rails and slotted grates rated for pedestrian and occasional service-cart traffic. Designers selected a continuous 0.5% slope over 90 ft with a single end outlet tying to existing storm piping. The boltless locking system simplified future maintenance in a busy public space.

• Install time: Two nights (phased to keep storefronts open).
• Outcome: No observable ponding during two subsequent 1"+ rain events; surface dried 40–60 minutes faster than before.
• Aesthetics: Minimal visual impact; stainless rails blended with adjacent paver banding.
• Maintenance: Staff can pop grates for quarterly cleanouts with no tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grate should I pick?

For patios and walkways, slotted or perforated grates balance appearance and flow. For driveways or cart paths, choose a grate with the rating to match your loads (up to Class E available).

How often do I need to clean it?

Quarterly visual checks are typical. Thanks to DrainLok®/QuickLok®, lift grates quickly, remove debris, and reseat. High-leaf sites may benefit from monthly checks in fall.

Will stainless steel rust?

Stainless rails resist corrosion very well, especially near pools, de-icers, or coastal environments. Galvanized is a cost-effective alternative where exposure is mild.

Get a Quote

Ready to size your run, choose grates, or confirm load ratings?

Specs Snapshot

• Internal Width: 4"
• Max Continuous Slope Run: up to 130 ft
• Edge Rails: Galvanized steel or stainless steel
• Grates: Mesh, slotted, perforated, ductile iron (ratings up to Class E)
• Locking: DrainLok® / QuickLok® boltless systems
• Stability: Anti-shunt lugs, numbered channels