Installing a flat roof for your commercial or industrial building offers a handful of benefits. However, concerns often arise about water accumulation due to the absence of a natural slope like pitched roofs. Luckily, flat roofs are equipped with efficient drainage systems that eliminate water pooling.
Duerson understands the importance of proper flat roof drainage, which is why we install the Duro-Last® Roof System. This industry-leading solution ensures optimal drainage and long-term protection for commercial and industrial buildings.
Why Flat Roof Drainage Is Important
Improper water drainage on your flat roof can have negative effects. One of the primary concerns is water ponding, which occurs when a puddle of water, regardless of its size, remains on the roof for more than 48 hours. While ponding water may not seem immediately problematic, prolonged exposure can gradually deteriorate the roofing membrane, shorten its lifespan, and cause other issues for your building.
Negative Effects of Water Pondering On Your Flat Roof
- Stainage: Pools of water create an ideal environment for the growth of algae and moss, leading to green stains. Additionally, discoloration can diminish the roof’s ability to reflect sunlight and affect its overall appearance.
- Attraction of Animals and Insects: Standing water acts as a magnet for animals and insects seeking a suitable habitat. For instance, mosquitoes can breed in pools of water, and birds may build nests in these areas.
- Roof Damage: The accumulation of water on a roof can eventually result in leaks, sagging, or even structural collapse if left unaddressed.
3 Types of Flat Roof Drainage
Flat roofs have three methods to manage water runoff and prevent excessive water buildup. Each of these draining options has its own pros and cons, but all effectively and efficiently prevent water from pooling on your flat roof.
Gutters
Gutters are a widely-used solution for draining rainwater from sloped and flat roofs. They are installed on one side of the roof, sloping down in a specific direction. While gutters work well to prevent rain from entering your building and causing water damage, over time they can pull away from fascia boards (the board that connects your gutter system to the building). Additionally, gutters and downspouts require regular maintenance to prevent becoming clogged with debris.
Scuppers
Unlike gutters, which direct water in one specific direction, scuppers are installed in various areas of the roof. Scuppers are positioned at low points on the roof and feature large square openings on the outer wall to allow water to flow out and down the side of the building.
Roof crickets, which are triangular structures, aid in directing water toward the scuppers for efficient drainage. Scuppers offer architectural appeal, cost-efficiency, and are low maintenance, but may also require regular cleaning similar to gutter downspouts.
Interior Drains
The final drainage option for flat roofs involves an interior system of pipes. Flat roofs are sloped to the middle or other designated areas where drains are installed to carry water away to the sewer. This method is similar to the drainage system of a sink in your house. The interior pipes are protected inside the roof and walls helping to prevent bursting, cracking, or freezing.
The only downside is that interior drains are the most expensive option, requiring professional installation and regular checking to clear the pipes.
Get In Touch With The Commerical Roof Experts
Whether you need repairs for a leaking roof, want to ensure your roof is ready for the rain, or need a new roof installation, Duerson Corporation is here to help. The Duerson Corporation has been helping commercial businesses with flat and low-sloped roof repairs, replacements, and installations for nearly 30 years. You can confidently choose Duerson knowing we’ll provide quality service and products to help keep your business running as it should. Contact us today!