When planning garage space, it's worth considering installing a proper water drainage system. Although linear drains (except for bathroom models) are typically associated with urban infrastructure - like underground parking, industrial halls or commercial buildings - they're increasingly being used in private properties too. Single-family homeowners have many reasons to consider such a solution.
You'll find answers below.
There are several reasons why installing a garage drain is beneficial.
In winter, snow accumulated on a car's body enters the garage and gradually melts, creating puddles. During heavy rainfall or spring thaws, this problem can intensify. Water accumulation on the floor isn't just an aesthetic issue. It threatens safety - increasing slip risks - and prolonged moisture promotes mold and fungus growth. This endangers both health and all materials and equipment stored in the garage.
A well-designed garage drain also simplifies daily space maintenance. Washing the floor - for example with a hose spray - becomes much easier as all water drains freely without leaving dirt and moisture in hard-to-reach corners.
Point drains, sometimes installed in basements, are one solution, but remember they have disadvantages. Primarily, they require creating a "sump" around them with proper slope grading, which is more complicated and demands greater installation attention.
Linear garage drains have an advantage here, as they only need general, even sloping. Additionally, their length allows collecting water from larger surfaces - even enabling floor washing with a hose. Naturally, with proper planning.
There are several options. Linear garage drainage can be installed in various places to serve both aesthetic and primary drainage functions.
These variants concern typical single-car garages. For two-car garages, adapt the project to the larger area. Drainage between spaces may cause water to flow toward the center. Functionally, two separate channels - each along a vehicle's axis - allow more efficient, even water drainage.
Garage drain with trap - why does it matter?
The trap in garage drainage plays a key role protecting interiors from sewer odors. It effectively separates garage space from waste system air that could otherwise freely penetrate. This is especially important for garages integrated with residential buildings. A trap, particularly with a dirt bucket, not only improves comfort but also simplifies system cleaning - catching larger debris like leaves or sand, preventing pipe clogging.
For convenience, definitely opt for longer drains, since post-renovation or finishing work extension becomes impossible. From experience, those choosing 1-meter drains often regret not selecting longer ones.
Many companies offer modular solutions with connectable elements allowing practically any length. The example above is modular linear drainage for garages, basements and parking by Nordic Tec. The photo shows arms connected to drain grates, with additional meter-long arms available separately. The set includes connection/sealing elements too.
Linear garage drainage - will it withstand vehicle weight?
Many garage owners wonder if floor-installed linear drainage interferes with daily use, especially vehicle movement. Properly selected models - made with durable materials and proper load-class grates - are completely vehicle-safe. Modern drainage channels designed for garages and vehicular areas withstand heavy loads like cars or small vans. Driving over properly specified linear drainage causes no damage or discomfort.
Ensure it's specifically designed for garage use, with manufacturer confirmation of durability for vehicular traffic as occurring in garages or underground parking.
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