Plastics vs Galvanised Drainage grates are often the comparisons we make out of when deciding what we actually want for our custom drainage grates. Of course, with that in mind, we want to make sure that when thinking about driveway channel grates, for instance, we have the quality and its benefits in check.
But even the best metal experts would opt for galvanised drainage grates. That’s because, in comparison with plastic-type material, galvanised drainage grates are far superior in terms of their durability, longevity, and overall quality.
It is in a sense no brainer, that if you want your drainage system to be fully functional while saving money, galvanised drainage grates are the way to go.
However, plastic grates can also serve their purpose. In terms of a micro-level drainage system, plastics can live up to their slight potency.
So to generate an equal understanding between Plastic vs Galvanised Drainage grates, here’s a breakdown of the said two components.
PLASTIC DRAINAGE GRATES
Plastic drainage grates, unlike galvanised drainage grates, are grates made from thermoplastics that are compressed and then moulded. Thermoplastics are a type of plastic component that can be heated and sculpted while still in the plastic form. This property distinguishes thermoplastics from other types of plastic. When allowed to return to its solid state, a thermoplastic substance must first be allowed to cool. The thermoplastic material is characterised by its properties of being a more malleable substance that is responsive to heat. When it comes to the use of drainage grates, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration. Plastic drainage grates should not be utilised in locations that see significant shifts in temperature, nor should they be used with liquids that are extremely hot. A plastic h drain grate can remelt when subjected to heat. Additionally, these plastic grates will expand and contract in response to significant shifts in temperature, which can eventually cause difficulties.
The usage of a plastic grating is restricted to load classes that begin with an A. The soft base material simply is not capable of withstanding larger weights due to its lack of strength. Driveways in residential areas frequently have trench drain grates made of plastic installed. Plastic trench drain grates can withstand this weight for a certain amount of time while wheeled traffic is present, but eventually they will break.
Advantages
- It provides a wide array of options. Plastic drains can vary in styles, width, and length. They can range from 20” in widths up to 10 feet in length.
- It’s lightweight. Because it’s lightweight, it makes the installation process easier. A designated person can at least carry a 10-foot fragment of the drain while other products might prove to be heavy. On the other hand, it also makes shipping conveniently easy compared to other heavy objects that need to be transported via trucks or other heavy-handling cargoes.
- Smooth installation process. Since they can be prefabricated just like custom galvanised drainage grates, measurements have been made in advance making them adjustable, easy, and quick to install.
- Lower cost. A plastic trench drain is affordable which speaks its ‘affordable’ quality, no doubt.
- Doesn’t break (sometimes). When a plastic drain drops on the floor, the impact can be forgiving. It doesn’t break as much as polymer concretes do.
Disadvantages
- Plastic drains aren’t strong enough on severe environmental conditions. During extreme hot and cold weather, the drain tends to separate from the concrete that holds it in place.
- When the mercury drops too low, plastic drains, sometimes don’t hold out for long. It can shatter when it greets an impact while frozen.
- It also displays low industrial strength when handling a huge load of applications.
- Durability is another problem. It’s not as durable compared to galvanised drainage grates.
GALVANISED DRAINAGE GRATES
What’s in it for galvanise drainage gates? Are they really as good as experts claim them to be?
Well, here’s a breakdown of their benefits and why you should truly opt for this type of drainage system.
Advantages
- Galvanised drainage grates are neat. It has an incredibly hygienic factor. Galvanised driveway grates are easy to clean and the wastes that get stuck in pores or ridges can be taken out easily. It’s also resistant to corrosion and the growth of bacteria and other toxic elements. This makes it more suitable for large drainage system projects in macro-level plans such as hospitals, food service facilities, restaurants, and many others.
- Its physical features are on-point. The common drain grates you see often hurts the eye but our company’s galvanised driveway grates in Sydney provide a sleek and modern look to your drain covers. This kind of drain grate is pleasing to the eyes and it also has the versatility to adapt with any designs. So even if you operate on different components, it can blend in without any hitch. Moreover, since it comes in various sizes, you won’t have to worry about it overwhelming the floor because it will look as if it’s part of the design itself!
- Secure. Galvanised drainage grates are safer when compared to plastic drain grates. Since drains like the former have a lower profile, this makes it safe for people. The chances of them tripping from them is, therefore, slim to none. Not to mention, the slots are thin so you don’t have to worry about heels or walking aides getting stuck and causing injury. It’s also durable and stronger compared to materials made of plastic. It can hold pressure and huge weight without breaking and resulting to hazard.
- Firm and strong. So like I said, it’s firm and stronger in contrast with other choices. You can rely on how it can resist greater impact which makes it capable of handling heavy loads. In short, you don’t have to worry about it breaking from pressure. Aside from weight, it’s also resistant to severe temperatures and corrosion.
- Budget-friendly. In the long run, you can thereby save money with galvanised drainage grates. It won’t break easily with its material so you don’t have to replace them as often as needed, saving you from splurging dollars.
- Aesthetically-pleasing. The general appearance of the galvanised drainage grates is another noticeable advantage of using stainless steel. When you notice drain grates, they are typically unsightly and stick out in contrast to their surroundings. This is the case the majority of the time. The use of galvanised drainage grates, on the other hand, provides an alternative to the traditional style of trench drain covers that is both more streamlined and contemporary. Much more aesthetically pleasant and versatile, a drain grate made of stainless steel can look good with a variety of different designs. Therefore, it does not matter where you intend to install the trench drain because the grate will blend in flawlessly and appear as though it was an integral element of the design from the very beginning. In addition, because it is available in a variety of sizes, galvanised drainage grates do not necessarily need to be wide in order to occupy a significant percentage of the space on your floor. Instead, it might be slim and unobtrusive, taking the form of a minuscule component of the design.
- Corrosion-resistant. Galvanised drainage grates are always open to the elements, including water and other liquids. Because of this, you need to make sure that the grates are made out of a material that is resistant to water in order to avoid rusting. In this regard, the performance of grates made of galvanised steel is superior than that of grates made of iron. They are resistant to corrosion, so you won't need to worry about repairing or replacing them any time soon. Depending on the capabilities of your facility, you have the option of selecting a grade with a low or high level of alloying. Because they are resistant to the corrosion that is caused by water, low-alloyed grates are an excellent choice for both residential and commercial structures. Galvanised drainage grates made of high-alloyed galvanised steel are resistant to both acidic and alkaline environments, making them an ideal choice for use in industrial facilities.
- Ease of maintenance. Due to the fact that it is non-porous, galvanised steel has become one of the most often used materials in the construction industry. Because of this, it is quite simple to clean when compared to other materials like plastic. To ensure the best possible performance, drainage systems need regular maintenance. Grates made of galvanised steel are an excellent choice for this purpose since they are simple to clean and can be kept in pristine condition with little effort. It is not necessary for you to be concerned about waste items being lodged in the pores or ridges of the trench grates. It will also be simple for you to eliminate waste materials such as these without causing any damage to the galvanised drainage grates. In contrast to grates made of cast iron, these grates do not require any kind of coating or painting. You will have reduced expenses as a result of using this method. You won't have to worry about the colour changing as a result of wear and tear either.
Disadvantages
- Galvanised drainage grates have a tendency to absorb and hold heat quickly due to the metallic qualities that give them their characteristic appearance. When used for extended periods of time, steel gratings may cause users to be subjected to an uncomfortable atmosphere since the temperature of the surrounding air may rise as the day progresses.
- Theft potential: As the worldwide market for scrap metal continues to see growing prices, galvanised drainage grates have increasingly become an attractive target for thieves.
Words to Ponder…
No matter how you look at it, galvanised drainage grates are a better choice. It’s cleaner, pleasing to look at, ergonomically safe, stronger, durable, and it saves you from spending so many dollars over time when compared to plastic drains.
While the initial cost of plastic drain grates is lower, this is still a temporal ability. The galvanised ones are long-term.
In terms of durability and long life, galvanised drain grates are superior. They are tailored to fit various applications compared to plastic-made materials. The life of plastic grates, indeed, is a lot less.
Such plastic drains aren’t convenient after all. Due to extreme weather or heavy wheels running over them, the drains will bend until they change form and get distorted.
Meanwhile galvanised drainage grates have different designs. Hence, they can suit your driveway gates without any reservation.
Galvanised Drainage Grates at Ferrum
Here at Ferrum, we provide durable, long-lasting, aesthetic-looking, and corrosion-resistant custom galvanised drainage grates in Sydney, at a lower cost.
Check out our best-selling products exclusive just for you! We offer...
- Traditional 150mm W x120mm D Galvanised Driveway Channel and Grates
- Heel Proof 150mm W x120mm D Galvanised Driveway Channel and Grates
- Channel End Cap
- Traditional 230mm W x 100mm D Galvanised Driveway Channel and Grates
- Heel Proof 230mm W x 100mm D Galvanised Driveway Channel and Grates
...and a lot more! So if you’re interested to know more of our available products, contact us!