Cast Iron Trench Grates Vs. Steel Trench Grates: Which Should You Choose?

If you’re having difficulty selecting between steel trench grates vs. cast iron trench grates, you’re not alone. 

Many of our customers reach out to The Trench Grate Store every day asking us questions, such as: which material is best for public works, which material is best for industrial purposes, and which material is best for my home.

In this Blog we’re going to break down some of the key differences between steel trench grates and cast iron trench grates.This way, you can have a better idea of which material will be best for your needs. 

Other Comparisons: Trench Drain Systems With Steel Grating Versus Stone Drains

What Are Cast Iron Grates?

Cast iron grates are made from molded cast iron bars. These grates are ideal for heavy loads like construction equipment or semi-trucks. Our grates come with H-20, and higher load ratings. 

What Are Steel Grates?

Galvanized steel drain grates have high durability and strength. Coated with zinc, these gratings provide resistance against corrosion as well — making them excellent for walkways, warehouses, and other applications.

Overview: The Difference Between Cast Iron Versus Steel Grating

Benefits of Cast Iron Grates

Our cast iron trench drain grates are ideal for parking garages, loading docks, roadways, and other heavily traveled areas. We offer cast iron grating with H20, ratings and higher.

We also offer Trench Drain Systems for use in outdoor shopping centers, promenade areas, and pedestrian walkways, where you may wish to choose a cast iron material.

Benefits of Steel Trench Drain Grates

Galvanized steel trench drainage grates come in Smooth, Serrated, ADA-compliant, and many more varieties. With a superior strength-to-weight ratio, they offer sufficient draining at an affordable price when compared to lighter, cheaper materials. 

Sizing Differences

​​With steel grating, we can provide close to the exact size requests. Keeping in mind that the final grate size may be slightly larger or smaller depending on where the measurement falls in conjunction with where bars are located. 

Custom sizing for cast iron grates is typically not possible. More often than not, these are formed in cast with predetermined sizing and shape.

Get The Best Grates For Your Trench Drain System

Get high quality durable grating today. We specialize in equipping your trench drain systems with the best grating materials, sizes, and designs available. 

No matter what you’re using your trench drain grating for, we have a solution. So don’t hesitate. Reach out to our friendly professionals today.