Viable Roof Drainage Options for a Commercial Flat Roof

Proper roof drainage is crucial to ensure the longevity and integrity of the entire building structure. Without effective drainage systems, water can accumulate on the roof's surface, leading to potential leaks, structural damage, and even the risk of collapse. Thus, choosing the right roof drainage options is essential for commercial property owners and managers. Here are viable roof drainage options for your commercial flat roof.

Internal Drains

Drainage systems for flat roofs typically consist of internal drains. Interior drains are typically positioned in the middle of the roof, underneath the surface. While exterior gutters and downspouts disclose drainage channels, interior drains keep them covered while still directing water to an exterior downspout. This design enables an efficient drainage system to be installed without compromising the building's appearance with exposed equipment.

This drainage system remains safe from harsh weather, so it will not freeze and thaw, which is a bonus for this type of system. Internal drains also help to reduce water damage by directing water away from the house's foundation and walls.

However, due to their concealed nature, internal drainage systems often cost more to maintain and repair. Pipes can also become blocked with material like leaves and other organic debris, necessitating periodic upkeep or cleaning to avoid problems. If a drainage pipe ever breaks, the water will likely soak into the building, which could lead to costly repairs.

Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts use water drainage channels attached to the roof's edge to drain water. Rainwater runs down the roof towards the eaves and into the downspout via gutters, which are mounted along the roof's edges. The downspout diverts water from the structure, keeping it away from the house's base, walls, doors, and windows.

Gutters are cheap and straightforward to install, but they need regular care to keep working correctly. Traditional gutters need regular inspection and cleaning to prevent debris buildup and safeguard them from the potential harm caused by extreme weather conditions. Rot on the roof and even fascia board damage can result from neglected gutters.

A framework of gutter and downspout attachments to improve the flat roof's drainage is feasible, but the project requires more time and effort than a standard gutter and downspout system for pitched roofs. A flat roof can benefit more from installing a drainage system beneath the flat roof to further reduce pooling and pumping out of water.

Scuppers

The term "scuppers" can be used to describe either the openings themselves that allow water to drain from a roof or the entire system. Scuppers are enormous, square holes in the exterior curb of a roof. Downspouts are commonly installed directly beneath scuppers to capture the water and direct it far from the structure.

Scuppers, compared to other types of drainage systems, are easy to install and inexpensive to maintain. If the scupper is the proper size for the roof, they also rarely get clogged and require very little maintenance.

However, scuppers do not work so well when there is a lot of rain or snowfall. Using steep roof pitches and a high parapet wall that directs water away from the building's edges helps improve their efficiency. Moreover, because they are incorporated into the structure of the building, retrofitting them can be costly and disruptive if conducted after the roof's construction.

Looking for expert flat roof services in the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin area? Look no further than Fischer Roofing - Flat Roof Pros. Trust our expertise and let us care for all your flat roof needs, so you can have peace of mind and a reliable, durable roof. Contact us today to request a flat roof installation or repair quote.