Roofing Company: 4 Ways To Resolve Drainage Issues In Flat Roofs
After looking for a unique style for your home, you probably settled for a flat roof. It offers a simple yet elegant and contemporary look. However, flat roofs may develop drainage problems despite being less vulnerable to strong winds and energy efficient. Poor drainage causes water to stand on the roof and can slowly leak into the inner side of the slab. However, with proper maintenance and timely repairs, you should be able to control drainage and protect your building. Below are some ways a roofing company can repair drainage issues in flat roofs.
1. Repairing Interior Drains
You've probably come across drains that resemble your shower drain on your flat roof. Interior drains are connected to pipes running down the house, behind the walls, and into an underground tank. These pipes protect the walls and foundation from water damage. Unfortunately, these pipes may clog over time due to debris infiltration into the system. Your roofer will inspect and clean the pipes to ensure they are clean, improve drainage, and prevent water pooling.
2. Gutter Installation and Cleaning
You probably have drainage issues because of clogged, faulty, or absent gutters. These structures divert water from the roof into an underground tank. They aren't exclusive to sloped roofs. The roofing company might recommend installing gutters if your flat-roofed house doesn't have interior drains. If you have gutters that don't seem to do their job well, the roofing company will repair and clean them to ensure they drain water from the roof.
3. Scuppers
These structures can be installed or cleaned like gutters to improve flat roof drainage. Roofers often install them on the edges or sides of a roof, redirecting water down the building while keeping the walls and siding dry. One of the biggest benefits of scuppers is they can be installed in an already completed building, unlike interior drains. They could enhance your home's curb appeal if well-designed, positioned, and installed. Since the downspouts redirecting water from the scuppers are prone to get clogged, roofers recommend routine cleaning to ensure proper drainage.
4. Adjust the Slope Slightly
Poor drainage encourages water to pool and destroy the materials over time. The moisture could infiltrate the roof, causing internal leaks. Some roofing companies prefer to solve the drainage problem by slightly adjusting the slope on the flat roof. The contractor might strip off old materials and apply new or used sheathing. They will then install the new materials while factoring in the newly adjusted slope. This allows water to drain to one side, where you can install downspouts.
If you have noticed that your roof has drainage issues, it's important to ask your roofing company to solve the problem. Your company might recommend any of the above repairs to prevent further damage. You can also discuss your ideas and concerns with your preferred roofing company for the best outcomes.
For more information, contact a local roofing company.