Linear Drains

Linear drains provide a sleek, efficient surface drainage solution for Long Island properties where water must be captured along a defined line before it reaches structures, enters garages, or pools on hardscaped surfaces. Brothers Paving & Masonry installs linear drain systems across Nassau and Suffolk County, bringing precise engineering and quality craftsmanship to every installation. Whether you need to protect a garage entrance, manage patio runoff, or control water along a pool deck, linear drains offer the performance and clean appearance that modern Long Island properties demand.

A linear drain, sometimes called a slot drain, consists of a narrow, elongated channel recessed into the surface with a slim grate or gap opening that captures sheet flow water as it moves across a paved area. Unlike traditional round or square drains that collect water at a single point, linear drains intercept water along their entire length, creating a continuous line of drainage that is far more effective at capturing surface runoff from wide, flat areas. This makes them ideal for the broad paved surfaces common on Long Island residential and commercial properties.

The design advantages of linear drains go beyond performance. Their slim profile and clean lines complement modern architecture and high-end hardscaping, integrating seamlessly into patios, pool decks, driveways, and entryways without the visual disruption of bulky grates or raised drain covers. For homeowners who have invested in beautiful paver or stone surfaces, a linear drain preserves the aesthetic while solving a critical drainage problem. Available in stainless steel, aluminum, polymer concrete, and decorative grate finishes, linear drains can be matched to virtually any design scheme.

On Long Island, linear drains are particularly valuable in several common applications. Garage door thresholds are one of the most frequent installations we perform. Long Island's flat terrain means many driveways slope toward the garage rather than away from it, allowing rainwater to flow directly into the garage during storms. A linear drain installed across the full width of the garage opening intercepts this water before it crosses the threshold, channeling it through underground piping to a dry well or other discharge point. This single installation can eliminate a problem that causes thousands of dollars in damage to garage contents, flooring, and even structural elements.

Patio and outdoor living areas are another prime application for linear drains on Long Island. As homeowners invest more in outdoor kitchens, seating areas, and entertaining spaces, keeping these areas dry and usable is essential. A linear drain installed at the transition between the patio and an adjacent surface, or at the downhill edge of a sloped patio, captures runoff before it reaches the house or pools in low spots. The slim grate design means guests can walk over the drain comfortably, and the drain does not interrupt the visual flow of the paved surface.

Pool deck drainage is a natural fit for linear drains, and Long Island's many residential pools benefit from their installation. Water from splash-out, deck washing, and rainfall needs to be captured and directed away from the pool equipment area and surrounding structures. Linear drains installed along the pool edge or at strategic points across the deck provide continuous water capture without creating trip hazards or detracting from the pool area's appearance.

Our installation process begins with careful planning of the drain location, length, and connection to the broader drainage system. We calculate the expected water volume based on the contributing surface area and local rainfall intensity data, then select a drain channel with adequate capacity. The channel body is set into a concrete bed within a prepared trench, with the grate or slot positioned flush with the finished surface grade. Precise leveling is critical because the drain must sit at the lowest point of the surrounding surface to capture all sheet flow water.

The drain channel connects to solid underground piping that carries the collected water to an appropriate discharge point. On Long Island, this is typically a dry well, an existing storm drain connection, or a dispersal area away from structures. We size the discharge piping to handle peak flow rates and install cleanout access points for future maintenance. All underground connections are made with sealed fittings to prevent leaks and ensure the full volume of captured water reaches the discharge point.

Long Island's freeze-thaw cycles require special attention in linear drain installations. Water trapped in the drain channel can freeze and expand, potentially damaging the channel body or dislodging the grate. We install drain channels with built-in slope to prevent standing water within the channel, and we select materials rated for freeze-thaw resistance. For exposed installations in unheated areas, we may recommend channels with additional structural reinforcement to handle the freeze-thaw stress that Long Island winters deliver.

Maintenance for linear drains is straightforward. The grate lifts out for cleaning, allowing you to remove any debris that has accumulated in the channel. We recommend cleaning the grate and channel at least twice a year, before and after the heavy rain season, and flushing the discharge piping annually to prevent sediment buildup. With regular maintenance, a linear drain system will perform reliably for decades.

Brothers Paving combines drainage engineering expertise with the installation precision that linear drains demand. We work with leading manufacturers to source high-quality drain systems that are built to last in Long Island's demanding climate. Contact us for a free evaluation and estimate on a linear drain installation that protects your property and enhances your hardscaping.