What Are Plumbing Drainage Covers And Why You Need Them

Everything About Drainage Covers And If They Are Worth It Or Not

Wondering what plumbing drainage covers are and why they are used? While this is a niche topic that very few homeowners care about, let’s dive deeper into plumbing drainage covers for all those who are interested.

Plumbing drainage covers are designed to protect your home from the accumulation of dirt, debris, and other hazardous materials entering your plumbing system. They are used to keep drains clean and prevent blockages that could lead to water damage or health hazards.

Plumbing drainage covers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. It is important to choose the right cover for your home to ensure it is effective in keeping your pipes and drains clean.

Types Of Drainage Covers

This guide will provide all the information you need to know about plumbing and drainage covers. Whether you are a homeowner, a renter, or a curious fellow thinking about your backyard drain covers/manhole covers, this guide has it all!

Introduction To Plumbing & Drainage Covers

Plumbing and drainage covers are an essential part of any home and a functional waste management system. They help to keep your plumbing clean and prevent blockages from occurring. 

They are commonly made of metal, plastic, rubber, or a combination of materials and come in different shapes and sizes. 

The most common type of cover is the manhole cover which is designed to fit over an access point to the underground sewer system. 

Yes, you’ve read that right! Manholes are technically considered drainage covers! 

Other common drainage covers are floor drains, shower, bathtub drain covers, and sink strainers. Let’s explore the types of drainage and plumbing cover available in today’s market. 

Types Of Plumbing And Drainage Covers

That being said, how can you choose the perfect cover for plumbing and drainage system in your home? Read till the end to find out!

The types of plumbing & drainage cover largely depend on their intended use. We’ve categorized all types of drain covers into 2 main groups. Let’s dive in deeper. 

Indoor Drainage Cover Plates

Indoor drainage covers are generally easier to install and require less maintenance than drain covers outdoor. 

This type of cover plate is typically made from plastic, rubber, or metal and can be used in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and other areas where water may collect. 

Regular Drainage Cover Plates

These covers are usually found in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to prevent debris from entering the drain. They come with a grate or screen to trap small particles like hair or soap scum that may otherwise block the drainage pipe. 

The size of the grate is usually specified in inches and is based on the diameter of the pipe or drain. It is important to choose the correct size of cover for plumbing and drainage specific to your home or office. 

Floor Drain Covers

Floor drains are often found in basements, laundry rooms, and other areas prone to flooding. 

They are designed to collect excess water from the ground and direct it away from your home. To keep these drains clog-free, you should use a floor drain cover plate.

Floor Drainage Cover

Areas prone to flooding or excess water should also have a backflow preventer installed. 

This device helps to prevent contaminated or flood water from entering your home’s plumbing system. 

Sink Strainers

Sink strainers are used to trap any solid particles that may enter the drain and cause a blockage. They come in various sizes and materials to fit your sink perfectly. 

The sink strainers also help to keep the sink free from clogs and odors. These covers are usually made of metal or plastic and can be easily installed with a few tools. 

Designer Plumbing And Drainage Covers

For those who want to add a bit of style to their home, there are designer plumbing and drainage covers available. I’m sure you have seen some of the stylish drain covers outdoors and indoors, right?

Designer Drainage Cover

These drainage cover plates are usually found in higher-end homes and commercial buildings. They are made of materials like copper and stainless steel for an elegant look. 

As a result, they are more expensive than the standard drain covers but can really add to the overall look of your home. 

Drain Covers Outdoor

Outdoor drainage covers are used to prevent debris and rainwater from entering the septic tank, cesspool, and other areas where wastewater is stored. 

They are typically made of metal or plastic and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Let’s explore them one by one. 

Manhole Drain Covers

Manhole covers are used to cover the access point to the underground sewer system. They are usually made of metal, plastic, or rubber and come in various sizes and shapes. 

When you walk on the sideway, you might see these round or rectangular-shaped plumbing covers. Even The Guardian has featured them!

Manhole Drain Cover

They have to be wide enough to let a man in/out and hence the name. It is important to keep these covers in good condition in order to prevent any accidents or contamination of the water. 

Access Covers

Access covers are used to provide access to the plumbing systems underneath. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be made from metal, plastic, or rubber.

For an effective waste management system, every city needs to have adequate access covers in place. This allows easy access to the pipes and drains for maintenance and inspections. 

Grates & Stormwater Drains

Grates and stormwater drains are designed to collect rainwater from driveways, paths, and other outdoor areas.

What’s special about grates is that they can be customized to fit different needs. Some grates come with an anti-slip surface which prevents accidental slips and falls on wet surfaces. 

These covers are designed to keep large particles and debris out of the drainage system during heavy rains. They come in various shapes and sizes to fit your specific storm drain needs. 

Gully Gratings

Gully gratings are used to protect drains from blockages due to debris and other foreign objects. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, including plastic, metal, and rubber. 

Usually, people place these grates outside the house to prevent leaves, dirt, and other debris from entering the drainage system. They also help to keep away pests such as rodents and insects. 

Ventilation Grilles

Ventilation grilles are used to provide additional airflow in areas that need ventilation. These grilles are usually made from metal or plastic and come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. 

They can be installed easily and are very effective in providing additional ventilation to a room. Ventilation grilles help to keep the air inside your home fresh and free of odors. Know how ventilation is important in an energy-efficient home according to the Department of Energy.

Ventilation Grilles

They also help to reduce condensation and dampness which can cause damage to the walls and ceilings. 

Gutter & Downspout Covers

Last but not least, we have the gutter and downspout covers. These covers are used to protect the gutters from damage due to debris, rain, and snow. 

They also help keep leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris out of the gutter system. Gutters come in various materials and sizes to fit your specific needs. 

Gutter covers can be easily installed using a few basic tools and provide excellent protection for your gutters. 

How To Replace Drainage And Plumbing Covers: 6 Easy Steps

We’re done with the different types of drainage and plumbing covers out there, it’s time to get familiar with the step-by-step process of replacing them. 

Here are what tools you’ll need  before you start the process: 

  • Pliers or adjustable wrench 
  • Level 
  • Hammer and nail 
  • Screwdriver 
  • A new cover of your choice 
  • Marker or pencil 

Now that you have all the tools ready, follow these 6 steps to replace your drainage cover: 

Step 1:  Remove the Old Cover

Start by removing the old cover. Don’t forget to shut off the water supply before you start replacing your floor/backyard drain covers. 

Use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench to loosen and unscrew any nuts or bolts that are holding it in place. Once removed, discard the old cover safely. 

If there’s any standing water nearby, remove them first. Also, determine which type of drain covers you want to be installed. 

Step 2: Clean the Area

Next, use a wire brush or rag to clean away dirt, debris, or any other materials that may be blocking the cover. Take specific measurements of the area, and mark them with a pencil or marker. 

Step 3: Place the New Cover

Now place the new cover into position and make sure it is level. Use a level to check if needed. 

Once you’re satisfied with its placement, mark around it using a marker or pencil so you know where to screw it in.

Putting A New Drainage Cover

Step 4: Secure the Cover

Using a screwdriver and hammer, drive nails or screws through each of the pre-drilled holes on the drainage cover plates until they are firmly secured in place. Be careful not to over-tighten as this may cause damage to the cover.

Step 5: Check for Leaks

Once the cover is secured, check to make sure there are no leaks around the edges. If any water or moisture is present, use a sealant to fill in any gaps and create a waterproof barrier. 

Step 6: Check for Proper Placement

Finally, double-check that all of the screws and nails are properly secured and that the plumbing drainage cover is in its correct position.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully replaced your drainage or plumbing cover. Now you can enjoy a better functioning system and improved safety for everyone around you. 

Here’s a DIY Video Guide on how to replace bathroom drain covers. 

Professional Plumbing & Drainage Cover Installation Service

You can try and replace/repair your plumbing drainage cover all by yourself. It’s a fairly straightforward process and you can find plenty of information online. 

However, if you’d like to ensure a professional result, then it’s best to call in a qualified tradesperson. 

A professional can not only install the cover of your choice but can also provide helpful advice and tips on which type is most suitable for your needs. This will not only save you time and money in the long run but can also provide peace of mind that the job has been done properly. Can’t do it by yourself? Read how to choose a plumber that can get your job done.

This is especially true if you need professional plumbing service in a commercial setting or with complex drainage systems. 

So, if you’re looking to replace or repair your plumbing and drainage cover plates, don’t hesitate to call Citizen Plumbing!

Drainage Cover Installation

Citizen Plumbing is a Toronto-based 24 hour plumber provider with over 25 years of experience. We guarantee a quality job, no matter how big or small the project is. No matter what kind of plumbing help you need here in Toronto, we have the experience and knowledge to handle it. 

We also provide plumbing services like pipe installation, drain unclogging, home renovation plumbing, backwater valve installation, pool installation, HVAC installation, and many more. If what you seek is the best quality services at the best price, we’ve got your back. 

You can call us or visit our website for more information. We look forward to helping you with all your plumbing needs. Contact us today for your free estimation!  

Plumbing & Drainage Cover Maintenance Tips

That was everything about your floor/backyard drain cover installation process. When it comes to choosing, there are hundreds of drainage cover plates available in the market. 

Although it’s easier to repair and install floor/backyard drain covers than to the drain covers outdoors (manholes), they can cause a wide range of issues if not installed and maintained properly. 

That’s why regular maintenance of these drain covers is important. Here’s what you can do to minimize the chances of any damage or clogs in your drainage system. 

1. Regularly check for signs of wear and tear and replace any damaged covers as soon as possible.

2. Use appropriate sealants to prevent water from entering the drainage system through the cover plate. 

3. Clear away dirt, debris, leaves, or other objects that can build up around the drain cover plates and affect their efficiency. 

4. Ensure your drain covers are properly secured to avoid them becoming loose or dislodged over time due to ground movement or extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong wind gusts. 

5. If you notice a foul odor emanating from your drains or an increase in water flow when using them, this may be indicative of clogged pipes which should be immediately addressed with professional help if necessary. 

FAQs

Are Drainage And Plumbing Cover Safe Enough To Walk On?

Yes, drainage and plumbing cover plates are designed to be safe enough for walking on. Many covers come with a non-slip surface, providing extra grip and stability for anyone who needs to walk over them.

How Much Plumbing And Drainage Covers Cost?

Generally speaking, basic covers can range from about $50 to $100. More complicated covers can cost up to several hundred dollars (CAD). The cost of a plumbing and drainage cover will depend on the material, size, and complexity of the installation. 

Where Can I Get The Best Cover For Plumbing And Drainage In Toronto

If you are looking for reliable plumbing service and drainage covers in Toronto, look no further than Citizen Plumbing. We’ve been servicing the community for over 25 years, providing quality installations and repairs at the best price possible. Our experienced professionals will ensure that your drain covers are properly installed and maintained.

Post Tags :

Drain cleaner, drain cover

Share :

About Us

We’re Toronto’s Premier Plumbing & Heating Contractor specializing in all sorts of plumbing, drain cleaning, and HVAC maintenance and repairs.

Contact Us

We love to get in touch! Call or email us for a quick reply, or fill up the form with your custom message and we will get back to you within 2-3 hours.

Table of Contents