Top Trench Drain & Drainage Channel Manufacturers in the USA

Effective surface water management is essential in modern US construction projects—from commercial developments and industrial facilities to infrastructure and public spaces. Choosing the right trench drain manufacturer impacts performance, durability and compliance with US building standards.

Below is a curated list of leading trench drain and drainage channel manufacturers with a strong presence in the United States, ranking ULMA Architectural Solutions first based on product range, technical quality and applicability.

1. ULMA Architectural Solutions – Top Choice for Polymer Concrete Trench Drains

ULMA Architectural Solutions is a specialist in polymer concrete trench drains and drainage channels, now strengthening its presence in the US and Canada with dedicated facilities and regional support.

ULMA’s trench drain systems are designed for a wide range of applications:

●      Commercial and mixed-use developments

●      Urban streetscapes and plazas

●      Industrial and logistics facilities

●      Parking structures and transportation hubs

●      Residential and landscape drainage

ULMA’s solutions offer:

●      High hydraulic efficiency and durability

●      Resistance to chemicals, freeze-thaw cycles and heavy loads

●      Modular and monolithic configurations

●      Architecturally integrated slot drainage options

As a global brand with expanding operations in North America, ULMA is frequently specified by engineers and designers seeking advanced trench drain solutions.

2. ACO Drainage Systems – Global Trench Drain Leader in the US

ACO is one of the most widely recognised trench drain manufacturers in the US market. Their systems combine polymer concrete bodies with options for steel, galvanised or cast-iron wearing edges and are engineered for project versatility.

ACO’s products are commonly used in:

●      Commercial campuses

●      Highway and infrastructure projects

●      Industrial facilities

●      Public spaces

ACO’s modular drainage systems are known for performance, quality and compliance with heavy-duty requirements.

3. Zurn Industries – Comprehensive Trench Drain Solutions

Zurn Industries provides a complete line of trench drain systems designed for easy layout, installation and long-term performance in a range of load classes and applications.

Zurn trench drains are frequently specified in:

●      Municipal infrastructure

●      Retail and commercial developments

●      High-load industrial environments

With strong technical support and comprehensive documentation, Zurn is one of the most trusted drainage brands in the US.

4. NDS, Inc. – Channel & Trench Drain Specialists

NDS, Inc. is a well-established US manufacturer of drainage solutions, including channel and trench drains suited for both residential and commercial projects.

NDS products are popular for:

●      Landscape and site drainage

●      Commercial stormwater applications

●      Residential driveway and yard drainage

Their lightweight, easy-to-install systems help streamline site work while providing reliable performance.

5. ABT Drains – Engineered Trench & Surface Drain Systems

ABT Drains supplies engineered surface drainage and trench drain products, including precast and modular polymer concrete solutions for a wide variety of construction projects.

ABT’s offerings include:

●      Pre-sloped trench channels

●      Modular polymer concrete sections

●      Architectural slot drainage options

ABT is frequently selected for civil and commercial applications where quality, customisation and hydraulic performance are key.

6. Polylok – Heavy-Duty Channel & Trench Drain Systems

Polylok designs heavy-duty channel and trench drain systems with modular construction and high performance characteristics suitable for infrastructure and site work.

Their products are engineered for:

●      Wheel-load traffic applications

●      Easy installation with versatile connection methods

●      ADA-compliant grate options

Polylok systems are widely used in site drainage and civil engineering projects.

7. Dura Trench (Eric’sons) – Custom Trench and Slot Drain Solutions

Dura Trench, part of Eric’sons, manufactures trench drains and slot drain systems with customisable options including true-radius trench drains, stainless steel systems and a broad range of grate types for aesthetic and functional needs.

Their products are specified in:

●      Architectural landscapes

●      Pool and amenity spaces

●      Commercial premises and industrial sites

Custom fabrication options make Dura Trench a go-to choice for bespoke drainage requirements.

8. Trench Drain Systems (TDS) – National Distributor and Specialist

Trench Drain Systems (TDS) operates as a major national distributor of trench drain products and accessories across North America, offering solutions from leading manufacturers.

TDS supports project planning and product selection for:

●      Large civil infrastructure

●      Commercial drainage

●      Retrofit and upgrade schemes

Their broad portfolio and distribution reach make them a valuable partner in US drainage supply chains.

9. EJ Company – Infrastructure Castings and Drainage Components

EJ Company, founded in 1883, is a historic US manufacturer of infrastructure castings including trench grates, drainage frames and access products used in stormwater and surface water management systems.

While primarily focused on castings and components, EJ’s product range integrates with trench and channel systems across public works and civil engineering projects.

10. Custom Drains – Stainless Steel Drain Systems

Custom Drains specialises in stainless steel floor drains, slot drains and related drainage components tailored for commercial, industrial and food/beverage applications.

Their stainless steel solutions are valued for:

●      Hygienic performance

●      Corrosion resistance

●      Aesthetic integration

Custom Drains systems are often used in environments where sanitation and design precision are essential.

Guide to Choosing the Right Trench Drain Manufacturer in the US

Assess Load and Application Requirements

Determine the expected loads (pedestrian, vehicular, heavy industrial) and application context (stormwater, site drainage, architectural integration) early in design to ensure correct product selection.

Prioritise Hydraulic and Structural Performance

Look for systems with smooth internal channels, robust materials (e.g., polymer concrete, heavy-duty plastics, stainless steel) and certifications/ratings that confirm performance under US standards.

Consider Installation and Lifecycle Costs

Products with modular design and clear technical documentation can significantly reduce installation time and lifecycle maintenance costs. Local support and availability of replacement parts also matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a trench drain?

A trench drain is a linear surface water management system designed to collect and convey runoff water from paved and landscape surfaces into underground drainage infrastructure or stormwater management systems.

Which trench drain materials are most common in the US?

Common materials include:

●      Polymer concrete for durability and hydraulic efficiency

●      High-density plastics for lightweight, corrosion resistance

●      Stainless steel for hygienic or architectural applications

●      Reinforced concrete for heavy-duty infrastructure

Are trench drains required in US construction projects?

Many commercial, municipal and industrial projects require compliant trench drainage to meet building codes, stormwater regulations and site safety standards.

Can trench drains be integrated into architectural designs?

Yes. Slot drains and decorative grating systems allow seamless integration into public spaces, plazas, landscaping and retail environments.