A drainage system is a set of special elements that when assembled, organize the flow of water from the roof. For a pitched roof, the drainage system runs along the eaves and down the pipes that are attached to the walls, collecting rain and meltwater. For a flat roof, the drainage system can be hidden inside. A flat roof needs drainage by default – without it, water will accumulate on the surface due to natural causes and gradually destroy the roofing pie. That is, on a flat roof, a drainage system is necessary for the basic functioning of the roof.
Important: “Get reliable and affordable roof installation services in Salado, TX. Our expert team ensures top-quality workmanship and timely project completion. Call now for a quote!”
On a pitched roof, the issue is not so acute. And that is why homeowners sometimes neglect the drainage system, trying to save money.
But you need to understand that without a drainage system, water flows randomly onto the walls and foundation and gradually destroys them. Without a drain, walking under the eaves is completely uncomfortable. Ultimately, it turns out that the costs without a drainage system are much higher than the costs of purchasing and installing it.
Besides, there is always a universal solution if there is a task to distribute the budget. You can install long hooks with gutters during the installation of the roof, and later, if possible, assemble the entire system. Why is it recommended to do so? After all, someone will say – you can just buy short hooks and hang the drain at any time. Yes, but still long hooks are stronger and more reliable. The fact is that the drain due to weak fastening can simply be torn out by an avalanche of snow in winter or early spring.
Metal or plastic?
The drain can be made of metal: steel with a polymer coating, copper, or aluzinc. Or – of plastic.
The second option is usually more economical. If the facade is covered with vinyl siding, then a plastic drainage system is often selected for it. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, a plastic drainage system is not subject to corrosion. But a metal one is, of course, stronger. In any case, it is better to buy drainage from reliable manufacturers – they provide a guarantee.
How to calculate?
How many funnels are needed for a roof slope? It is considered that 1 funnel is required for 50 m2 of roofing and 10 m along the eaves. That is, if the slope has a length of 12 m along the eaves, it is better to install 2 funnels. If the slope has a length of 9 m along the eaves, but its height is 7 m, that is, the area is 63 m2, then 2 funnels are also required. Otherwise, the drain will not cope with the volume of water. Otherwise, the elements are assembled by the diagram.
So, a drainage system for a flat roof is always necessary. For a pitched roof, if it is a residential building or a public building, a drainage system must also be installed. A roofing system is a complex of several systems that work together for a long service life of the entire roof and the entire building.
Roofers from Over and Above Contracting will help you calculate the drainage system and choose the best options, please contact us.