Floor drains are pivotal components of any building's plumbing system. They prevent water accumulation, reduce slip hazards, and avert water damage to property. However, selecting the right one requires careful consideration of several factors, such as adjustability of depth and surface leveling at the time of installation.
Understanding the Basics of Floor Drains
Floor drains are necessary to prevent water from accumulating and causing flooding in various areas, such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, and basements. They serve as the first line of defense against water damage and potential hazards, safeguarding your property from flooding, mold, and mildew. Floor drains are significant in areas with high moisture levels. They help to maintain a clean, dry, and safe environment by efficiently channeling water away.
Floor drain usage and purpose
A floor drain is a plumbing fixture designed to prevent water accumulation on the floor in areas where spills, leaks, or overflows are likely to occur.
- Preventing water accumulation: Floor drains help keep the floor dry by efficiently draining away liquids. This is essential in basements, laundry rooms, utility areas, and commercial kitchens.
- Reducing injury risks: By eliminating standing water, floor drains help reduce the risk of slips and falls, promoting safety.
- Improving indoor air quality: Proper drainage prevents moisture buildup, reduces mold and mildew growth, and improves indoor air quality.
Types of floor drains
Understanding the specific needs of your project is essential when selecting the right floor drain for optimal performance. Consider the application of the floor drain and plumbing connections—including pipe material, pipe size and connection type, surface area, drain profile, prep work, and aesthetics. Common types of floor drains include:
- Traditional Floor Drains: Grated openings connected to an underground pipe that directs water to the main sewer line or a sump pump.
- Trench Drains: Sometimes called channel drains, these collect water efficiently and direct it to an outlet.
Floor drain applications
Floor drains are essential components used in various industries and settings. There are several typical applications where floor drains are used, such as:
- Residential: In residential spaces such as garages, laundry rooms, and basements, floor drains prevent water damage and ensure a clean and safe environment.
- Commercial: In commercial buildings such as restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers rely on floor drains for managing water flow.
- Industrial: Industrial facilities such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, and factories require heavy-duty floor drains to manage large volumes of water, chemicals, and debris.
What is an Adjustable Floor Drain?
An adjustable floor drain is a unique system for post-installation adjustment. Unlike traditional drains, which are fixed in place during installation, adjustable floor drains provide flexibility by allowing you to make changes even after the concrete floor has been poured. With greater efficiency and convenience, adjustable floor drains can be adjusted on-site to fit any floor surface, which helps to save time and money for installers and builders.
Introducing RectorSeal’s SureGrade Adjustable Drains
RectorSeal’s SureGrade is a floor-adjustable drain that provides greater installation flexibility. It is an on-grade adjustable drain with an integral design that allows the installer to adjust the drain using three separate points. This design results in a seamless, level surface. SureGrade saves the installer time by not having to return to the job site to adjust and install the grate.
Its pre-installed grate with a protective cap resists potential damage during construction. The SureGrade cap also includes a 4mm Allen key, which the installer uses to make precise adjustments, up to one inch vertically, to the strainer height after pouring concrete.
Additional features of SureGrade include:
- One-step installation
- Pre-threaded trap primer with knockout
- 1,500 lbs. load rating
SureGrade efficiently removes excess water and prevents pooling. It is recommended for commercial and multifamily facilities’ bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and boilers. With SureGrade, you can enjoy simple and easy on-site adjustments.
For your next commercial project, visit www.rectorseal.com to learn more about RectorSeal's SureGrade, available as a 3x4” PVC adjustable floor drain and a 3x4” ABS adjustable floor drain.
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