There are so many roof drain options out there. It can be quite confusing and overwhelming when it comes to making the right choice. The wrong drainage system can result in pooling of water on the roof which could lead to leakage. Poorly installed roof drains can cause damage to the physical structure of the building as well as the interior. Waterproofing one’s home is vital and using a professional roofing company will ensure that your home stays in the best condition possible.
Roof Drain Systems for Flat Commercial Roofs
There are a number of options for drainage when it comes to a commercial roof. Here are a few of the systems that you could have installed to ensure your commercial roof stays solid and puddle free throughout its lifespan.
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Scupper Drains
This is one of the cheapest drainage systems for flat roofs. Scupper drains are placed around the perimeter of the roof. They are placed at low points so that they can gather the most water possible. These drains are attached to a gutter or a pipe outside the building which carries the water away from the building. The water usually runs from the pipe or gutter into a drain in the ground. The only problem with these drains is that they can become frozen during the cold weathers as they are exterior. It is important to make sure the pipes are cleaned often as blockage caused by dirt and debris will prevent water from being carried away. These drains carry water away from the building and prevent the foundation of the building from being damaged by the water.
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Internal Drains
These roof drains carry the water through pipes that run through the inside of the building. Certain areas of the roof will be made to slope inwards. This is where the drain is placed. The water runs toward the drain, down the internal pipes and then into a drainage system below the building. It is important to keep these drains and pipes unclogged as the water will pool on the roof which can lead to leakage. These drains are usually covered with a strainer that stops leaves and debris from getting into the drain and pipes. However, it is important to check the drain and pipes occasionally to ensure that no debris has accidentally gotten into them. These are recommended for large roofs where water often collects in the center.
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Gutter Drains
Gutter drains can be used for flat roofs that slope slightly as this helps the water move to the perimeter of the roof where the gutter is located. The whole roof must slope in one direction for this method to be effective. However, this only works for roofs that aren’t too large as bigger roofs can lead to clogging due to the high amounts of water it might catch. These can easily be added to any building as they don’t require for any modifications to the roof to be made.
Roof Drainage Options for Sloped Residential Roof
Sloped roofs are naturally better at preventing pooling due to the design of their structure. The sloped roof allows water to run off without having to modify the roof. However, the water coming off. The roof might damage the foundation of the building. The solution? Installing gutters as this will carry the water away from the building. These gutters can be placed along the perimeter of the building and be attached to pipes. These pipes will carry the water away from the building and underground.
