What is a floor drain?
A floor drain, also called a floor gully (Dutch: schrobput or vloerput), is an outlet built into a stone, tiled or concrete floor. Inside it sits a removable bucket or dirt trap that catches sand, dirt and hair so that they do not end up in the sewer. In most models there is a trap (water seal) below the dirt trap that stops sewer smells from rising. The Dutch name comes from schrobben, scrubbing: cleaning with water and a stiff brush or broom, after which the water runs away through the drain.
Floor drains are available in plastic and stainless steel, with various gratings, installation heights and connections (vertical or horizontal outlet).
Application
Floor drains are used in garages, utility rooms, laundry rooms, stables, commercial premises, walk-in showers with tiled floors, and on terraces or courtyards.
Installation tips:
- Fall: the floor must slope towards the drain on all sides, otherwise puddles remain. Set the height of the drain before pouring the concrete or laying the screed.
- Lowest point: place the drain at the lowest point and positioned so that the falls are easy to form (with tiles: think about the cutting lines).
- Watertight connection: in wet rooms the waterproofing (for example a sealant or collar system from the manufacturer) must connect properly to the drain.
- Correct outlet diameter and a connection to the sewer with sufficient fall.
- Accessible dirt trap: choose a model whose bucket and grating can be removed without tools.
Maintenance and common problems:
- Odour: a floor drain that is rarely used dries out. Pour a bucket of water into it now and then to refill the trap.
- Blockage: empty the dirt trap regularly; sand and leaves are the main culprits.
- Oil and chemicals do not belong in an ordinary floor drain; they need oil separators or dedicated facilities.
Related Terms
- Gully
- Screed
- Drainage
- Channel drain
- Balcony drain
Discover our DIY plans at fredsdiyplans.com