How to Install ACO Drain Next to Your House
Ever noticed water pooling around the side of your house after heavy rain? That’s not just annoying it can lead to serious problems like damp, cracked foundations, or even flooding. The good news? There’s a simple solution: ACO drain installation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install ACO drains, why they’re so effective and what to keep in mind when installing them next to your house. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just figuring out if this job is worth attempting yourself, we’ve got you covered.
What is an ACO Drain?
Before we get into the ACO drain installation guide, let’s quickly cover what an ACO drain actually is.
An ACO drain is a type of linear drainage system. It’s made up of long, narrow channels covered by a metal or plastic grate. These drains are perfect for collecting surface water and directing it away from areas like driveways, patios and most importantly your home’s foundation.
Why Install an ACO Drain Next to Your House?
Installing an ACO drain next to your house has big benefits:
Prevents water damage: Stops rainwater from soaking into your walls or pooling around the foundation.
Reduces dampness and mould: By keeping water away, you’re keeping your home drier and healthier.
Protects landscaping and paving: Prevents erosion, sinking and damage to paths or garden features.
Improves resale value: A dry, well-drained property is a big plus for potential buyers.
So now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s get into the real stuff – how to install an ACO drain.
Installing an ACO Drain Next to Your House?
Here’s What to Watch Out For
If you’re planning to install an ACO drain next to your house, there are a few extra things to think about:
Keep it at least 100mm below damp-proof course: You don’t want the drain directing water too close to your brickwork.
Avoid damaging pipes or cables: If in doubt, get a utility check before digging.
Use a gully or trap if connecting to foul water drains: Helps prevent smells and blockages.
And finally—make sure the water has somewhere to go. Installing an ACO drain that leads nowhere is like putting a bucket under a dripping tap and forgetting to empty it!
ACO Drain Installation
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the right tools and materials:
Tools
- Shovel or trenching spade
- Spirit level
- Hacksaw (for cutting sections)
- Trowel
- Rubber mallet
Materials
- ACO drain channels
- End caps and corner pieces (if needed)
- Drain outlet (to connect to existing drainage or soakaway)
- Concrete mix
- Gravel (for bedding)
- Protective gloves
Got everything? Let’s dig in—literally.
ACO Drain Installation Guide
Step 1:
Plan Your Drain Run
First things first, figure out where the water is collecting and where you want it to go. Ideally, the drain should slope gently towards your outlet or soakaway. A slope of around 5mm per metre works well.
Step 2:
Mark and Dig the Trench
Using your drain sections as a guide, mark out the trench. It should be:
About 100mm deeper than the drain
About 100mm wider on each side (to allow for a concrete surround)
Dig the trench and try to keep it as even as possible. Use a spirit level to check for that slight slope.
Step 3:
Prepare the Base
Once your trench is dug, add a 50mm layer of compacted gravel or a weak concrete mix at the bottom. This forms the bedding for the ACO drain and helps it stay put.
Step 4:
Lay the ACO Drain
Now comes the fun part. Start at the lowest end of your run (near the outlet) and work your way up. Slot each ACO channel into place on the bedding.
Make sure:
The grates are facing upwards (obviously!)
The channels are sloping slightly downward
Everything sits level from side to side
Tap each section gently into place using a rubber mallet.
Step 5:
Connect to Drainage
If you’re connecting to a soakaway or existing drainage pipe, attach your outlet piece now. Make sure it’s secure and angled correctly to help water flow away efficiently.
Step 6:
Concrete Around the Drain
Once you’re happy with the position, mix your concrete and backfill around the sides of the ACO drain. This keeps everything solid and helps with load-bearing—especially important if you’re installing across a driveway.
Top tip: Don’t pour concrete over the grates! Either remove them before pouring or cover them with tape or board.
Step 7:
Let It Set
Leave the concrete to cure for at least 24–48 hours before using the area. After that—job done!
Maintenance Tips for ACO Drains
Once installed, ACO drains don’t need much TLC. Still, a bit of light maintenance now and then keeps them working their best:
Lift the grates and clear leaves/debris every few months
Flush the channels with a hose to remove silt
Check for blockages at the outlet connection
Simple stuff, but super effective.
While ACO drain installation is definitely a doable DIY job, it does take time, tools, and a bit of know-how—especially if you’re installing a drain next to your house or dealing with complex groundwork.
If you’d rather have it done quickly, cleanly, and professionally, that’s where we come in. At Plumbing Immediately, our team handles everything from planning to installation, making sure your drainage is spot-on.
We’ll make sure your home stays dry, your foundations stay protected and your garden stays beautiful—rain or shine.
