Driveway channel drain

We need to install a 20' channel drain across our driveway to catch rainwater flowing down into our garage. We had a couple estimates but want to make sure the contractors are going the right route. They said to cut the DW w/ a saw, jackhammer remove the asphalt, compact gravel, install the channel drain pour concrete around it. How wide should the cut out section be? What size what type should the channel drain be? Is there a cheaper alternative to pouring concrete where the DW is cut, like can you cut it narrower so the channel drain fits right in? Any ideas greatly appreciated... What your contractors propose is correct. The hole has to be large enough for them to excavate the dirt and asphalt, as well as provide the correct pitch for the drain with the gravel base. Filling around it with concrete will grout it in and make it set firmly against the asphalt and the ground. I am not sure of the measurement of the drains, but they are about 6 square with a larger grate on top. I think your worries are minimal and you should let the contractors give you the 3 estimates so you can choose between them. Do it carefully. While pouring concrete may seem like overkill, if done properly it will result in the best long-term solution for your drainage problem. A sawcut asphalt driveway lacks the strength to properly support both itself and the drain--it will start to crumble and settle when repeated vehicle wheel loads push the drain downwards. Make sure the water has a place to go, such as piping it to daylight elsewhere in the yard.

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