How to Install Trench Drains at a Basement Entrance

A trench drain is used as a barrier to catch water before it flows where it is not wanted. A homeowner can think of a trench drain as a small moat that circles part of the house instead of a castle. Usually, trench drains are not required around the entire circumference of a house but are only used in the front of garages or basement entrances. Trench drains are often needed to catch and divert water moving toward a house down a sloping driveway or sidewalk.

Shovel
Measuring tape
Tin snips
Drain gutter
Bagged concrete/aggregate mix
Wheelbarrow
Water source with hose
Hoe
Drain grate

Instructions

- 1
  Dig a trench approximately 7 inches wide by 5 inches deep, using a shovel.
- 2
  Measure the trench drain gutter to extend the length of the basement entryway. Use tin snips to cut the trench drain gutter to this length.
- 3
  Place the gutter in the trench. Adjust the depth of the trench with soil so the lip of the gutter is slightly beneath the grade level as it approaches the basement.
- 4
  Attach the hose of the water source. Place one bag of concrete in the wheelbarrow. Mix the concrete with water, using the hoe. Mix the concrete thoroughly.
- 5
  Pour the concrete around the gutter. The concrete should completely enclose the gutter on the sides to a level 1/8 inch below the gutter. Allow the concrete to dry for at least one day.
- 6
  Place a trench drain grate on the top of the gutter to allow residents to easily walk across the gutter and to provide a finished appearance.

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