National Diversified Systems (NDS), a plastic trench drain manufacturer based in California, has a dazzling display of trench drain systems that appeal to homeowners and contractors alike. This 3 inch wide channel system comes in 6 foot long, easy to install sections. This product is popular because of its simple construction and inexpensive price. However, a large portion of its allure also comes from the variety of grating styles it has available. ???????? ????? ??????

The most common grate for the Mini Channel is the standard 3 foot long gray plastic grate (shown on the right). NDS also offers a plastic grate in 5 other colors (white, green, black, red, and sand). For those with a more discriminating taste, NDS offers two simple brass options (shown on the left). The one foot long brass grates are slotted and come in a satin or polished finish. Besides being simple, shiny, and elegant, they contain chamfered holes for optional screw placement which help to keep them fastened to the channel.

A decorative, cast iron product has recently come available for Mini Chanel customers. Iron Age is a growing name in the world of decorative grates. Their cast iron grating product line offers a beautiful side to what may otherwise be only functional. Iron Age has two styles of cast iron grates that work with NDS’ Mini Channel: the Interlaken and the Minione. These products (shown on the left) are not ordinary slotted grates. The Interlaken is a bold geometrical pattern while the Minione has a flowing design.

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There are a few basic differences between the Minione and Interlaken grates. Style aside, the grate’s channel fit is the next most noteworthy difference. A comparison of the two grates (shown on the left) illustrates this difference.

The Minione is a thinner grate than the Interlaken. It does not rest in the channel with the same depth that Interlaken does. One gets the feeling that the Minione sits on top of the drain, rather than in it. This could mean that the Minione grate is more susceptible to become dislodged than the other. The Minione grate is designed with two dimples that are the locations for optional screw holes (they do not come pre-drilled). If used with screws, the Minnione becomes as reliable as any other grate in its class. Another small difference between the Minione and Interlaken is the length. The Interlaken (11″ long) is about an inch shorter than the Minione (12″ long).

Cast iron is the standard material used to make these Iron Age grates. Cast brass, bronze and aluminum products can be manufactured for an additional cost. We should note that cast iron grates are uncoated and will form a rust coating. In some cases, the rusted look can be endearing. If your situation doesn’t support this view, consider painting with an epoxy coating.

Cost is all in a person’s perspective, especially when talking about trench drain products. A simple plastic grate that comes in six basic colors is available for a very low price per foot. NDS’ brass grate, a beautiful, no-hassle solution for those still worried about rust or decor, is the most expensive. The cast iron grates by Iron Age, which add style and variety, come for the more moderate price that falls somewhere in between. They are the true extra mile, the art to efficiency, and are the balance if a cost-efficient and stylish grate is desired.

Hannah Schroer is a new contributor to Trenchdrainblog. She works in the day as a trainee at Trenchdrain.biz. At night, she is a journalism student in Northeast Pennsylvania.