Why You Need a Drainage System If You Have a Flat Roof

November 02, 2017

A properly working drainage system can give homeowners a sense of security about avoiding costly damages, like a rotting foundation, overflowing gutters, and many others. Water has no mercy when it comes to the damages it can do to a house. That's why it is always better to hire a rain gutter cleaning service to take a look at your property than it is to deal with the consequences of an improperly working drainage system.

Homeowners often choose a gabled roof for their houses, but there are plenty of options. Another popular option is a flat roof. If you are thinking about getting a flat roof for your home, you should also think about the kind of drainage system that you are going to need.

A property's drainage system is one of the most important things you need to take into consideration. But you may be thinking: does a flat roof need a drainage system? The answer is yes.

Flat roofs are getting more and more popular among homeowners with modern-style homes. These roofs usually have a minor incline and are used on commercial and industrial buildings. However, they are becoming increasingly common in residential construction. Here are some of the pros and cons of flat roofs:

Cost
This is a pro. Since they lack pitch, they are easier to install, which makes the installation process quicker and cheaper. Also, they require fewer installation materials than pitched and other types of roofs.

Extra Space
This is a pro as well. Having a flat roof will open up space that is usually occupied by an angled roof. This is especially true for your home's top floor.

Maintenance
Unfortunately, there is no way for water to naturally drain away from flat roofs because they are flat. This causes water to stand, which can cause major problems. Of course, this is a con.

Heat Absorption
Because of their design and exposure to the sun, flat roofs absorb heat, and as a consequence, your air conditioner will be working harder than usual to keep your home cool. This is also a con.

Now that you know more about flat roofs, here's the most important thing you need to consider before installing one: the drainage system.

Having a drainage system in your home is essential to avoid problems like flooded attics, rotting foundations, garden erosion, and damaged exteriors, which will all affect your property's lifespan. However, do not be scared. If you have a flat roof, you can still have an effective drainage system. Here are the three most common types of drainage systems for flat roofs:

• Internal Drains
  This system is made up of drains that are usually located near the center of the property, which are attached to an internal network of pipes that drain the water away through the roof, keeping the water far away from the walls and foundation. The benefits of having this type of system are that hardly any pipes need to be replaced because they are protected by the roof and walls. Additionally, they are visually appealing because gutters and downspouts are not necessary. This is the most expensive of the three types of drainage systems.
  
  However, interior drains need to be regularly cleaned. If they get clogged by leaves or debris, they will cause serious water problems sooner or later.


• Scuppers
  First of all, scuppers are low cost. They are openings in the outer walls that drain the water away from the home's foundation and walls. They do not require regular maintenance, and if they are large and wide enough, they likely won't have clogging problems. Besides, scuppers are a good choice for areas that experience a lot of heavy rain, like Miami.


• Gutters
  As you may know, rain gutters are the most common drainage system for any type of roof because they have a lot of benefits. They are inexpensive, protect window openings and doorways, and like the other types of systems, they keep water away from the foundation to avoid structural damage to the house.
  
  Gutters are pipes that are attached to the edges of the roof. It is as simple as that. Besides, they can be installed without having to modify the roof in any way. If you attach downspouts to them, they will work even better. This system needs regular maintenance to avoid clogs due to debris or leaves. If they clog, they will likely overflow sooner or later, causing damages to your house's roof, walls, and foundation.

The Importance of a Drainage System
Sadly, most homeowners do not realize the importance of having a proper drainage system. As you have read, having one that works properly is vital because it drains water away from your home and prevents future damages. If water is not drained in a controlled manner, it can cause mold growth, erosion, insect infestations, gutter and downspout problems, and all sorts of other damages. We know you don't want any of that.

If you want to avoid future headaches and prevent your house from suffering water damage, you need to have a proper drainage system installed by professionals. We can help you! Rain Gutters Solution has decades of experience offering rain gutter installations, cleaning, and repair services at a fair prince. You can contact us by filling out our contact form or by calling at (305) 270-7779. If you are interested in learning more about our latest promotions and discounts, subscribe to our newsletter. Find us on Facebook at Rain Gutters Solution, Twitter @RainGuttersSolution and Instagram @GuttersSolution.