1. Product Overview
The NDS 1211G Square Catch Basin Drain Grate is designed to protect your drainage system by preventing debris from entering and clogging pipes. It effectively drains heavy flows of stormwater from various outdoor areas, including lawns, landscaped sections, patios, and walkways. This grate is intended for use with 12-inch catch basins, risers, or low-profile adapters, directing water to a discharge point or infiltration system.

Image 1: Top view of the NDS 1211G Square Catch Basin Drain Grate, featuring a diamond design.
Constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with UV inhibitors, this grate is built for durability and resistance to environmental factors. Its strategic openings provide a 53.1 sq. inch open surface area, allowing for a 162 GPM flow rate. When properly installed, it is rated for NDS Class B loads, suitable for medium-duty pneumatic tire traffic, and is ADA compliant.
2. Setup and Installation
2.1 Components Required (Not Included)
- 12-inch Catch Basin, Riser, or Low-Profile Adapter
- Drain Pipe (to connect to the catch basin)
- Discharge Point (e.g., pop-up emitter, dry well, infiltration trench)
2.2 Installation Steps
- Prepare the Catch Basin: Ensure your 12-inch catch basin, riser, or low-profile adapter is correctly installed and connected to the drain pipe system.
- Position the Grate: Place the NDS 1211G drain grate directly on top of the catch basin opening. Ensure it sits flush and securely.
- Secure (Optional): If your catch basin or adapter has screw holes, you may use appropriate screws (not included) to secure the grate for added stability, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Verify Placement: Confirm that the grate is level with the surrounding surface to allow for efficient water flow and prevent tripping hazards.

Image 2: The NDS 1211G grate shown installed on a catch basin. Note: Catch basin is not included with the grate.

Image 3: A closer view of the NDS 1211G grate's fit on a catch basin, highlighting the secure placement.
3. Operation
The NDS 1211G drain grate operates passively as part of your drainage system. Its primary function is to allow stormwater to pass through while filtering out leaves, dirt, and other debris. This helps maintain the integrity and flow capacity of your underground drain pipes.
3.1 Intended Use
- Draining excess surface water from lawns and landscaped areas.
- Collecting runoff from under downspouts.
- Managing water on patios and walkways.
- Protecting drain pipes from clogging by debris.
3.2 Flow Rate
The grate has an open surface area of 53.1 square inches, providing a flow rate capacity of 162 Gallons Per Minute (GPM). This ensures efficient drainage during heavy rainfall.
4. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your NDS 1211G drain grate is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your drainage system.
4.1 Cleaning
- Routine Inspection: Periodically check the grate for accumulated leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris.
- Debris Removal: Manually remove any visible debris from the grate surface. For stubborn dirt, a stiff brush and water can be used.
- Catch Basin Cleaning: If the catch basin below the grate has a sediment trap, remove the grate and clean out any collected sediment to prevent blockages in the drain pipe.
4.2 Inspection for Damage
- Inspect the grate for any signs of cracking, warping, or other damage, especially after heavy loads or extreme weather conditions.
- Replace the grate if significant damage is observed to maintain proper function and safety.
5. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your drain grate.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water pooling on grate surface | Grate openings are clogged with debris. | Clear all debris from the grate surface. |
| Slow drainage through the system | Catch basin or drain pipe is clogged. | Remove the grate and clean out the catch basin. Inspect and clear any blockages in the connected drain pipe. |
| Grate is not sitting flush or is unstable | Improper installation or uneven surface. | Ensure the catch basin or adapter is level. Re-seat the grate firmly. Consider securing with screws if available. |
| Grate appears cracked or damaged | Excessive load or impact. | Replace the damaged grate with a new NDS 1211G grate. |
6. Product Specifications
- Model: NDS-1211G
- Material: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Color: Black
- Design: Diamond
- Product Dimensions: 12"W x 1"H (12" x 12" nominal size)
- Item Depth: 1-1/8"
- Open Surface Area: 53.1 sq. in.
- Flow Rate Capacity: 162 GPM (Gallons Per Minute)
- Load Rating: NDS Class B (up to 175 psi when properly installed)
- ADA Compliant: Yes
- UV Inhibitors: Included to prevent fading and cracking
- Item Weight: Approximately 8 ounces
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Warranty Information
The NDS 1211G Square Catch Basin Drain Grate comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. It does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, abuse, accident, or unauthorized modifications.
7.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or further information, please contact NDS customer support. You can find contact details on the official NDS website or through your product retailer.
NDS also provides additional resources to assist with drainage projects:
- NDS Home Drainage Center
- Online Calculators for drainage needs
- NDS Stormwater Drainage mobile application







