Plastic vs. Metal Drain Grates: Pros and Cons

Putting in a new pool? You might not think about drain gates, but you can’t go without them.

As well as draining water properly (especially after heavy rain), they stop debris from getting into your drainage system, which is expensive to fix.

But once you’ve planned out the pool for your yard, what materials should you go for: metal or plastic? This blog will discuss the pros and cons of both!

What Are Drain Grates?

You’ve probably heard of the storm drain, but other types of drains exist for driveways, pools, industrial areas, and more.

By allowing water to be pushed away from the surface, grates prevent damage and pooling to nearby structures. Grates could be parallel metal bars or a slab of stone-like material with slots.

How do they work? Sitting over the top of the drain (which could be a channel or a hole), grates are a barrier stopping debris from getting into the drain. Grates also allow cars and people to cross over them safely.

Where specifically would you install one?

1. Residential driveways are to manage surface water runoff.
2. Commercial properties in parking lots or walkways should be designed to stop flooding.
3. Industrial areas for larger bodies of water.
4. Public spaces, such as parks or streets, for cleanliness and safety.

What Are Plastic Drain Grates?

Unlike metal drain grates, plastic drain grates are made from thermoplastics that are compressed and moulded. Able to be heated and sculpted while in its plastic form, this makes it different from other types of plastic.

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons you might use it.

1. Plastic drain grates vary in width, styles and length, ranging from 20” and up to 10 feet in length.
2. They are lightweight and easy to install or ship.
3. Since they can be prefabricated like custom steel grates, measurements can be made in advance.
4. Affordable quality for many projects.
5. Does not break like polymer concrete.

Being a thermoplastic, it is more malleable and responsive to heat, but this means it expands and contracts in response to significant shifts in temperature, which can cause problems if you live in an area where temperatures change quickly.

Why shouldn’t you order plastic grates?

1. They are not strong enough in severe weather conditions and can separate from the concrete that holds them together
2. Displays a low industrial strength when handling a huge load of applications
3. When mercury drops too low, plastic drains have the potential to shatter if they’ve been dealt with an impact while frozen
4. Ultimately, not as durable as galvanised grain grates

What About Metal Drain Grates?

What are some of the benefits of metal drain grates?

1. Galvanised drain grates are simple to clean; any waste that is stuck in ridges/pores can be taken out without issues.
2. Corrosion resistant, bacteria growth resistant, and resistant to other toxic elements. This means they are suitable for large drainage systems in food service facilities, hospitals, restaurants, and other commercial spaces.
3. Aesthetically pleasing, as they add a modern, sleek look to your drain covers. Blend a metal drain grate with any design. It doesn’t matter where you install it; it’s going to look slim and unobtrusive.
4. Safer in comparison to plastic grates. A lower profile means fewer chances of people slipping, and thin slots mean heels or walking aides won’t get stuck! Better yet, metal grates can hold pressure and heavy weights without breaking down.
5. Budget-friendly. Since the material is strong, you won’t need to replace it.
6. Easier to maintain than plastic! They don’t require coating/painting, for example, like grates made of cast iron.

Why would a metal grate not be right for your project?

Sometimes, galvanised drain grates have the potential to absorb and hold heat quickly due to their metallic properties.

With this in mind, metal drain grates are stilla smarter choice as they are cleaner, look great, are durable, safe, and are a long-term solution for both residential and commercial purposes.

If you would like to learn more, read our blog on types of drain grates, a comprehensive review.

How Do You Choose Materials?

When selecting between plastic and metal drain grates, consider the following factors:

Are they compatible with your drain size?

Some drainage width measurements are standard, however not all drainage widths are made for your project! For example, drainage and grates can be manufactured to fit specific channels, so you may need to buy them at certain places to find the right one. Purchase one that will fit your sewage or storm drain opening to avoid clogging or blockages. A Paver Shop contractor can help you measure everything so it is compatible.

Do they stay in position?

A custom drain grate should not move, especially if your area gets a lot of traffic that alternates between braking and turning. It can be dangerous if cars or people cross over grates that don’t sit in place. Water run off will also be collected.

How much weight can the drain grate support?

Since some drain grates are used for roads or walkways, they need to be capable of sustaining weight. Although there are load class standards, galvanised drainage grates are extra rust-resistant from increased exposure to fast temperature changes, filth, water and steady pressure.

Unsure on how to plan your landscaping? Have a read of how to choose the best paving contractors for your project.

Why Choose The Paver Shop for Your Lauxes Grates in Melbourne?

As one of Melbourne’s leading suppliers of Lauxes grates, The Paver Shop offers a diverse product range coupled with exceptional customer service. Our unique selling points include:

1. A Wide Range of Quality Grates: We offer an extensive collection of premium grates in various designs, colours, and sizes.
2. Expert Advice and Recommendations: Our team of professionals provides expert advice and guidance to help you choose the right product.
3. Outstanding Customer Service: We offer unparalleled levels of customer service, ensuring the best possible shopping experience.

Whether you’re needing pavers in Brunswick, Greenvale, Bundoora, Preston, Northcote, Taylors Hill, Thomastown, Thornbury, or Pascoe Vale, Paver Shop can point you in the right direction. Quote me!  

Types of Drain Grates at Paver Shop

The Paver Shop is a home to a group of seasoned Lauxes grates suppliers. Whether you’re a Melbourne-based contractor, landscaper, or homeowner, you can rely on us to provide you with the best from the Lauxes product line. 

NXT

Storm Water

Tile Insert

Order Metal Drain Grates at Paver Shop!

Do you need pavers, sealers, cements, adhesives, silicones, or more information on how Paver Shop can supply and install your metal drain grates?

Operating since 2019, we are owned and operated by a trained professional with 20 years of experience in the paving and landscaping field. As a specialist in the supply of quality natural stone products, we help you find the appropriate material for efficient drainage and long-term performance.

Whether it’s bluestone, granite, travertine, sandstone, limestone or shell stone,  we offer a range of sizes and finishes to give you the look you wish to achieve. In addition to natural stone pavers we also supply synthetic turf.

We can quote your property and/or recommend preferred installers to you. This makes us a one-stop shop, saving you time and money. Alternatively, we offer a “We come to you” service. For an appointment, please contact us on (03) 9462 4325 or email [email protected].