Guide • NDS Micro Channel Drain System

NDS Micro Channel Drain System: A Compact, Low-Profile Solution for Pool Decks, Patios & Walkways

The NDS Micro Channel Drain System is a slim, 1¼″-wide PVC channel designed for light-duty residential areas—think pool decks, spas, patios, garden paths, and entryways. Its discreet profile keeps the focus on your hardscape while quietly collecting nuisance water and directing it away from slip-prone surfaces.

Why Choose Micro Channel? (Tech Explained Simply)

• Light-Duty Rated: Built for Class A pedestrian traffic—safe for foot, bike, stroller, and wheelchair use around the home.
• Durable PVC: UV-stabilized colors—white, sand, or gray—to resist fading and cracking under sun exposure.
• Modular Accessories: Elbows, tees, outlets, end caps help you trace curves, corners, and T-intersections without custom fabrication.
• All-in-One Build: Channel and grate are molded together for quick, fuss-free installs and fewer loose parts.

Best-Fit Applications

• Pool Decks & Spas: Capture splash-out and rinse water to reduce slips and surface staining.
• Patios & Paver Terraces: Keep entertainment areas drier without bulky grates or trench covers.
• Walkways & Entries: Intercept roof runoff and hose-down water before it reaches door thresholds.
• Planter Borders: Tuck into tight joints along edges to guide overflow to a drain point.

Layout & Sizing Tips (Step-by-Step)

1. Trace the water path: Mark the low side of slabs (pool coping edge, patio perimeter, walkway border) where water naturally travels.
2. Plan discharge: Route outlets to lawn basins, dry wells, or storm connections per local code. Add tees to consolidate short runs.
3. Mind the grade: A gentle fall (≈1–2%) toward the outlet improves flow; use a string line or laser for consistent pitch.
4. Select color: Match white/sand/gray to your deck, grout, or paver tone for a discreet look.
5. Use accessories: Elbows for corners, tees for branch lines, end caps to terminate at walls or borders.

Installation Overview (DIY-Friendly)

1. Score & Saw: Mark the run; cut a narrow trench or kerf in pavers/concrete per manufacturer guidance.
2. Dry-Fit: Lay the channel and accessories (elbows/tees/outlets) to confirm lengths and joints. Trim as needed.
3. Set Grade: Establish a consistent fall toward your outlet. Secure with bedding material or adhesive (per instructions).
4. Connect Outlets: Tie to drain pipe, basin, or dry well. Use proper adapters and solvent-weld where specified.
5. Finish Edges: Re-set pavers or patch concrete neatly around the channel; keep the grate top flush with the finished surface.

Case Study: Pool Deck Makeover That Stays Dry

Location: Suburban backyard pool + spa • Problem: Splash-out water and hose-downs left slick puddles along the coping and at the back door. A full deck re-grade wasn’t feasible.

Solution: The contractor installed an NDS Micro Channel Drain in a subtle border joint around the spa spillway and along the deck toward a hidden outlet near landscaping. Sand-color PVC blended with travertine pavers, and tees pulled water from two short branch lines into the main run.

• Install time: ~5 hours (two-person crew), including cutting and edge finishing.
• Outcome: Noticeably drier surfaces after swim days; the back-door threshold stayed clear during storms.
• Homeowner notes: The low-profile channel is “nearly invisible” compared with traditional trench grates.

Maintenance & Care

• Seasonal checks: Inspect quarterly (and after heavy storms) for leaves, mulch, or sand buildup.
• Gentle cleaning: Rinse with a hose; use a plastic putty knife or soft brush along the grate slots. Avoid harsh solvents.
• Snow/ice: Use plastic shovels near the drain and avoid metal blades that could nick the grate.

FAQs

Is Micro Channel strong enough for cars?

No—it's Class A pedestrian only. For driveways or vehicle routes, choose a heavier trench drain system.

Can I bend the channel around curves?

The channel is straight, but you can create segmented curves using short sections with elbows and careful miters, or transition to round basins in tight radii.

Will the color fade?

The PVC is UV-stabilized to resist fading and embrittlement in sunlight. Periodic rinsing helps keep the surface clean.

Spec Snapshot

• Channel Width: 1¼″ (approx.)
• Traffic Rating: Class A pedestrian (foot/bike/wheelchair)
• Material & Colors: UV-stabilized PVC in white, sand, or gray
• Design: Channel + grate molded together (all-in-one)
• Accessories: Elbows, tees, outlets, end caps
• Typical Uses: Pool decks, spas, patios, walkways, entries, planter borders