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NDS Mini Channel Drain System

NDS Mini Channel Drain System

Mini Channel™ Drain 90° Elbow and Grate, Gray Plastic

$77.75


FREE SHIPPING
SKU 5380

Create a 90° bend in your custom Mini™ Channel drainage system with the Mini Channel Drain 90° Elbow and Grate. No need to saw a straight channel drain and grate and miter together to make the angled turn. Channel is made of polyvinyl chloride and can be solvent-welded with PVC glue for a water-tight connection; grate is made of polypropylene treated with UV inhibitors. The Mini Channel Drain, part of the NDS Profile Series™ Channel, is ideal for light flows of water from pool areas, concrete and paver patios, tennis courts, walkways, and driveways. Channel drains, also called trench drains, are long, narrow drains used for surface drainage of hardscapes. As part of a complete drainage system, channel drains collect and convey water to drain pipes, which carry the water downstream to discharge with a pop-up emitter, or to percolate into the ground with a dry well or infiltration trench. NDS channel and trench drains are designed for durability, drainage, and performance, and are a proven alternative to traditional concrete drains.

 

System Selection:

  • Scroll down to select your system components. Multiple channel units are connected together and then paired with accessories such as caps and grates. 

Note: NDS drainage products are subject to a $750 minimum order.


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View Our Full Selection of NDS Channel Drain Products →

Ordering Info:

Please scroll down for the complete Mini Series product listing with pricing. Not sure of the exact parts needed for your project? Please submit an NDS Channel / Trench Drain Quote Request >

Spec Sheets

Visit ndspro.com to download specification sheets and other technical information.

Shipping

  • All items ship for free (standard ground, see map)
  • Call: (800) 604-5537 for pricing and shipping questions. Shipping estimates shown on the map pertain to this specific product only.
  • Orders typically ship in 1-2 business days. Transit times displayed in the map are listed in business days, and are approximate. The day that the order is shipped is not counted as a transit day.
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Channel Drain System & Accessories (Free Shipping)

Please see the below product listing. Please note, accessories (grates, clips, caps, etc.) must be purchased with a channel /  trench drain system including channels and cannot ship alone.

NDS Mini Channel Drain System — Compact Drainage Guide, Install Steps & Case Study

Guide • NDS Mini Channel Drain System

NDS Mini Channel Drain System: Compact Strength for Patios, Walkways & Pool Decks

The NDS Mini Channel Drain System combines subtle aesthetics with surprising strength. At roughly 3" wide × 3" high, it fits neatly into hardscapes such as patios, pool decks, and walkways—offering reliable water control without overwhelming your design. Engineered with reinforced walls and smart accessories, it delivers both performance and style.

NDS Mini Channel Drain installation process
Mini Channel installation along a pool deck

Key Benefits

  • Rigid and Stable Design: Honeycomb-reinforced walls with a “flying buttress” structure for superior load-bearing integrity.
  • Secure Installation: Outer flanges with anchoring lips prevent floating during backfill and ensure stability.
  • Customizable Layouts: Available in 6-ft sections with cut-to-length capability, plus a full set of elbows, tees, outlets, and caps.
  • Grate Variety: Decorative and functional grate options in plastic or brass to suit design and traffic needs.
  • Surprising Strength: Certain grates support vehicle loads, while brass options shine for pedestrian pathways.
Close-up of NDS Mini Channel Drain product
Compact 3″ Mini Channel fits seamlessly in hardscapes

Where It Works Best

  • Patios & Terraces: Maintain dry seating and entertainment areas without bulky drains.
  • Walkways & Side Paths: Prevent puddles that can lead to slick surfaces or foundation damage.
  • Pool Decks: Capture splash-out water and direct it safely away from coping and grout lines.
  • Driveways (with rated grates): With heavy-duty grate styles, handle cars and light trucks.

Installation Overview

Plain English: Lay, anchor, connect, and cover—the system is modular and straightforward.
  1. Excavate & Prep: Dig a trench ~4–5″ wide, set bedding material for stable grade.
  2. Place Sections: Insert Mini Channel sections; cut to length as needed.
  3. Secure with Anchors: Use anchoring flanges to lock channels in place.
  4. Connect Grates & Outlets: Choose decorative grates; connect outlets to drainage lines or basins.
  5. Backfill & Finish: Surround with concrete, pavers, or deck material flush to grate height.
NDS Mini Channel Drain installed with pavers
Mini Channel with decorative grate integrated in patio

Case Study: Patio + Driveway Combo

Location: Residential patio with adjacent driveway • Problem: Rainwater pooled near the back door and ran across a driveway, causing surface staining and minor cracking.

Solution: An NDS Mini Channel Drain was installed across the patio edge and extended into the driveway. Decorative plastic grates matched the patio finish, while heavy-duty grates in the driveway provided vehicle support. Outlets tied into an underground dry well.

  • Install time: 1½ workdays (two-person crew).
  • Outcome: Both patio and driveway remained dry; homeowner avoided costly repairs.
  • Homeowner notes: “The decorative grates blend in beautifully—and it just works.”

Maintenance Tips

  • Check grates quarterly for debris; snap out for easy rinsing.
  • Brush with a nylon brush for stubborn buildup.
  • Inspect outlet connections annually for secure flow.

FAQs

Can Mini Channel handle vehicle loads?

Yes—certain grate styles are vehicle-rated for light trucks and cars, while others are pedestrian-only.

Is it customizable?

Absolutely. Use elbows, tees, and couplers to create flexible layouts tailored to your site.

Will it hold up outdoors?

Yes—engineered with UV-stabilized materials and reinforced walls for long-term durability.

Spec Snapshot

  • Channel Size: ~3″ wide × 3″ high
  • Section Length: 6-ft, cut-to-length ready
  • Reinforcement: Honeycomb + flying buttress walls
  • Accessories: Elbows, tees, outlets, couplers, end caps
  • Grate Options: Plastic, decorative, and brass in multiple colors
  • Traffic Rating: Pedestrian; some grates rated for vehicles
  • Applications: Patios, walkways, pool decks, and driveways (with rated grates)
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