Converted Side Entry Grates

No, when opting to use a Converted Side Entry Grate, installation is actually quite straightforward for experienced civil contractors, as they do not need to change the existing pit and pipe infrastructure, only the grated lid.

As the converted side entry grate is designed with its grate sections set on certain angles to mirror the slope of a driveway, it is easy to install during the construction of the new driveway simply by ensuring it is positioned correctly over the existing pit.

Flat grates are typically used for junction pit applications, but may also be used in a side entry application. However, a flat grate can only receive stormwater through a singular flat surface. In comparison, a converted side entry grate is used when a junction pit needs to be converted into a side entry pit, i.e. when a nature strip has been converted into a driveway.

Due to having two angled grate sections and a larger surface area, converted side entry grates are able to receive higher stormwater inflow than a standard flat grate.

A converted side entry pit refers to a pit that was formerly a junction pit, but has been converted into a side entry pit due to the installation of a new driveway or driveway extension, resulting in the pit now receiving stormwater via side entry; i.e. from the road drainage channel.

In general, the standard forgebar or weaved pattern in SVC's stormwater grating range is rated as bike-safe, meaning bicycle or wheelchair wheels can safely travel over the grate surface without getting caught or stuck. The grate apertures (openings) of bike-safe grating designs are typically too large to safely accommodate high-heeled shoes such as those with a stiletto heel.

In certain applications, pedestrian areas may specify "heel-safe" or "heelproof" grates, which have smaller openings to prevent high heels from getting caught. Out of SVC's stormwater grate offerings, only our Pedestrian-Safe Grates are classed as "heel-safe" and are suitable for high-heeled shoes.

The clear opening refers to the size of the open space or void beneath a cover or grate, and typically matches the internal size of the pit chamber below. It is the most critical dimension when ordering pit covers.

Access covers and grates are usually larger than the clear opening size in order to sufficiently cover the pit beneath. It is important to note that any dimensions in the product descriptions typically refer to the nominal clear opening, not the external dimensions of the cover or grate itself. For specific product dimensions, SVC can provide technical datasheets or product drawings for accuracy.