How to fix this channel drain?

SPMac

Hi, looking for advice on how I go about fixing this channel drain that has pulled away from the paving?

My best guess is that it wasn't properly installed to begin with and will require digging it up and relaying on a bed of sand and cementing in place? Thanks

MitchellMc

Hi @SPMac,

It sounds like the channel drain wasn’t properly installed to begin with, and your plan to dig it up and relay it on a sand and cement bed is the right approach. The fact that it's pulled away with chunks of tile still attached to the adhesive suggests that while a strong adhesive may have been used, the base below lacked proper support. This kind of movement can often be caused by significant pressure, such as from a ride-on mower or other heavy load passing over the drain. 

To fix it properly, you’ll need to remove the drain and any loose material, then excavate a trench slightly wider and deeper than the unit. Lay a fresh mortar bed (a 4:1 mix of sand and cement), position the drain firmly in place, and haunch the sides with mortar to secure it. Once everything has set, the drain should be much more stable and resistant to movement. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell