including drainage. Understandably,
customers want to create a certain
appearance for their homes: one that
showcases premium quality. Pushing for a
specification of a grating element with the
right aesthetic can add a subtle yet
important touch to a project.
For example, some customers want
drainage systems to be subtle and barely
noticeable. These systems are inserted
seamlessly between brickwork to provide a
clean and contemporary finish.
If a bold finish is desired, architects could
use grated channels to make a feature of the
drainage through mosaic, slotted or
lightening gratings. Drainage made from
stainless steel, cast iron, aluminium or
composite, can also enhance a bold finish.
It is important to consider maintenance
and placing access units in a channel run.
Most drainage systems are designed for
easy jet-wash maintenance but the more
discreet drainage options require thought
about the placement of access units.Complete the look
When planning and drawing the design of a
new housing project, there are a number of
drainage channels which help complete the
look, from contemporary stainless steel to
antique cast iron, meaning the finish can
replicate the initial designs.
There may be some reservations about
utilising aesthetically pleasing systems, in
case they do not provide the appropriate
functionality of what is expected. To caveat
this, architects should ensure that any
drainage channels that are recommended to
fit with the design have the appropriate
load class requirements. There are load
classes that architects should look out for
in a new housing project (namely B 125 and
A 15). B 125 rated systems should be
installed for private car parks or areas
where domestic vehicles will be present.
For other areas of the house, such as patios
and garage thresholds, A 15 rated drainage
is sufficient.Final thoughts
As well as playing an integral role of the
surrounding infrastructure of a building,
drainage can also play its part in the design
and should therefore be carefully
considered by architects. As a final note,
grating visualiser tools are available from
some water management specialists on the
many different options available.William Poynter is design service advisor at
ACO Water Management© Will Allen© Will Allen46GROUNDWORKS & DRAINAGEWWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK ADF AUGUST 2019
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