How Much Does Installing A Threshold Drain Cost in the UK?

When it comes to home improvement, one of the most overlooked aspects is drainage. However, proper drainage is crucial to the longevity and functionality of your home. In this article, we will explain how much it costs to install threshold drains in the UK, what factors influence the price, and how you can save money on this project by doing some parts yourself.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Threshold Drain Installation

Key Factors

When it comes to installing threshold drains, there are a few key factors that will affect the overall cost of the project, including:

• Installation size and complexity - A small, straightforward installation will be less expensive than a large, complex installation. For example, installing a linear channel drain along a single doorway will be less expensive than installing multiple drains around the perimeter of a house.
• Drain Type - There are a variety of different types of threshold drains available, each with its own unique price point. Some of the most common types include linear channel drains, slot drains, dished channels, and built-in shallow channels. Linear channel drains are typically the most affordable type of threshold drain. Slot drains, dished channels, and built-in shallow channels are more expensive and offer more benefits in terms of appearance, performance, and durability.
• Drain material - Common materials include fibreglass, stainless steel, and bronze. Fibreglass is usually the most cost-effective option, while stainless steel and bronze are more durable but also more expensive.
• Location - The ease of access to the installation location can affect labour rates. If the location is hard to reach or requires additional work to access, this can increase the cost.

Additional Factors

In addition to these factors, there are a few other things to keep in mind when budgeting for threshold drain installation:

• Permits - Depending on your local regulations, you may need to obtain a permit for installing a threshold drain channel. This is especially true if the installation involves significant changes to your property’s existing drainage system. The cost of these permits can vary widely, so it’s important to check with your local authorities.
• Site preparation - If the site needs to be prepared before installation, this will add to the cost of the project. Site preparation may involve tasks such as removing old paving, levelling the ground, and excavating the trench for the drain.
• Backfill - Once the drain is installed, it needs to be backfilled with gravel or other material. The cost of backfill will vary depending on the type of material used and the amount required.
• Contractor Minimums - Some contractors have a minimum charge for their services, regardless of the size of the job. It’s important to discuss this with your contractor before work begins. Drainage specialists usually charge by the hour or by the project, and their rates can vary from £30 per hour to more. You may also need to pay for additional services such as site preparation, excavation, disposal, and testing.

Overall, the cost of installing threshold drains can vary widely depending on the specific factors involved. To get an accurate estimate, it is best to consult with a qualified drainage contractor.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Threshold Drain in the UK?

The cost of installing a threshold drain in the UK can fluctuate significantly due to a variety of factors discussed above. The price usually varies from £200 to £1,000 depending on the size and difficulty of the installation, the drain type, and the property's location. 

DIY Threshold Drain Installation Costs

If you're good at DIY, you can install, clean, or fix threshold drains yourself and save money on labour. However, you will still need to pay for the materials and equipment that are required for the project. Here are some of the supply costs that you need to consider if you decide to do it yourself:

The drain channel and grate

The drain channel and grate are the main components of the threshold drain system. They come in different sizes, types, and materials, and their prices can vary accordingly. For example, a 1-metre slot drain channel and grate can cost around £50, while a 1-metre trench drain channel and grate can cost around £30.

The drainage pipe and fittings

The drainage pipe and fittings are used to connect the drain channel to the main drainage system or a soakaway. They also come in different sizes, types, and materials, and their prices can vary accordingly. For example, a 4-inch PVC drainage pipe can cost around £10 per metre, while a 4-inch clay drainage pipe can cost around £15 per metre. You will also need some fittings such as bends, couplings, junctions, and adapters, which can cost from £1 to £10 each.

The bedding material

The bedding material is used to support and level the drain channel in the trench. It can be sand, gravel, or concrete, depending on the type of drain and the ground conditions. The bedding material can cost from £10 to £50 per tonne, depending on the type and quantity.

The tools and equipment

The tools and equipment are used to dig the trench, cut the pipe, join the fittings, and install the drain channel and grate. You may already have some of these tools at home, such as a shovel, a saw, a hammer, a tape measure, a spirit level, and a screwdriver. However, you may also need to buy or rent some specialised tools and equipment, such as a trencher, a pipe cutter, a pipe wrench, a drill, a grinder, and a compactor. These tools and equipment can cost from £10 to £100 each to buy, or from £5 to £50 per day to rent, depending on the type and quality.

As you can see, there are many supply costs that you need to consider if you want to install threshold drains yourself. You should also factor in your time and effort, as well as the risk of making mistakes or damaging your property. Therefore, it is advisable to do some research and planning before you start your DIY project. Alternatively, you can hire a professional drainage specialist who can provide you with expert advice and service.