Roofing systems for the roof: functions and purpose

Krympress reports:

Modern construction cannot be presented without thoughtful engineering and a competent approach to each part of the building. One of these key elements, although not always noticeable at first glance, is the drainage system. This is not just a pipe hanging from the roof, but an engineering solution that protects the building from moisture, extending its operation and creating comfortable living conditions. In this article, we consider what the drainage system is, how it works, what functions performs and what nuances should be taken into account when choosing and installing it.

What is a drainage system

Roof drainage systems (or drainage roofing systems) is a set of elements designed to collect and remove atmospheric precipitation from the roof of the building. The main goal of the system is to direct and safely remove rain water or melt snow from roofing surfaces, thereby protecting the walls, foundation, blind area and adjacent territory from moisture.

Systems are external (installed on the facade) and internal (used mainly on flat roofs). Private housing construction is most characterized by external drainage systems, which are most often mounted under the overhangs of the roof.

Functions of the drainage system

A correctly mounted drainage system performs several important tasks at once:

1. Foundation protection and blinding from washing
   Water, uncontrollably flowing from the roof, quickly erodes the soil and washed the blind area. This leads to a weakening of the foundation and the destruction of the base of the building. The drainage system organizedly takes water into a storm sewer or drainage wells.
2. Preservation of the facade
   Without drains, rain drops and flows of talus snow inevitably fall on the walls of the building. Moisture destroys finishing materials, leaves stains and promotes the development of fungus and mold. The drainage system directs the flow of water down the pipes, preventing contact with the facade.
3. Prevention of icing and ice
   In the absence of a drainage, in winter the water can drain onto the blind area, freeze and form ice. This is dangerous for both the building itself and for pedestrians. Distributions minimize the risk of ice formation at the entrances and on the tracks.
4. Improving aesthetics and accuracy
   Modern drainage systems are not only functional, but also aesthetic. They are selected to the color of the roof and facade, give the building a finished architectural appearance.
5. Water collection for re -use
   In many private houses, drainage systems are used to collect rainwater in tanks. This saves resources and is used, for example, for watering plants.

Design and elements of the drainage system

The drainage system includes several basic components:

• GOLOBA — horizontal channels that collect water from the surface of the roof. They are mounted around the perimeter of the building at an angle for natural runoff.
• Funnels and corners — elements connecting the gutter, as well as providing transitions at the corners of the roof.
• Supervisor pipes (risers) — Vertical pipes that take the water from the roof down.
• Knee and bounces — Provide turns and diverting water from the foundation.
• Brackets and mounts — are used to reliable fixation of elements to the walls and roof.
• Camps, lattices and trap for foliage — Protect the system from blockages.

Materials of drainage systems

Modern systems are made from different materials, each of which has its own pros and cons:

1. Plastic (PVC)
   Light, inexpensive, easy to install, resistant to corrosion. Suitable for most private houses. However, not so strong for shock loads and severe frosts.
2. Galvanized steel
   Classics of the genre. Durable, durable, resistant to mechanical damage. At the same time, it is subject to corrosion if the coating is broken.
3. Steel covered with polymer
   Combines the strength of the metal with moisture resistance. Durable, aesthetic, available in different colors. The best choice in price/quality ratio.
4. Copper
   The most expensive and durable material. The service life is up to 100 years. An excellent appearance, not afraid of corrosion, does not require painting. Used in elite cottages.
5. Aluminum
   Light, resistant to corrosion, does not require maintenance. It is more often used in architectural projects.

How to choose a drainage system: Practical tips

1. Consider the roof area
   The larger the roofing area and the angle of inclination, the greater the volume of the water should be taken by the system. This affects the diameter of pipes and gutters.
2. Evaluate climatic conditions
   In regions with heavy precipitation and severe frosts, it is worth choosing durable materials (for example, metal with a polymer coating), reliable mounts and strengthen the gutter.
3. The architectural features of the house
   The number of corners, overhangs, bay windows and other structural elements determines the complexity of the system and the number of components.
4. Color and style
   The system must harmoniously fit into the facade. Choose the color of drains to the color of the roof, siding or windows.
5. Installation and maintenance
   It is important to correctly install the system with the desired slope and tightness of all connections. It is also worth providing for the possibility of cleaning and inspecting the elements.

Typical errors when installing the drainage system

• Insufficient slope drainage gutters (water stagnates)
• Too rare mounts (gutter bend under the snow)
• The wrong diameter of the pipes (overflowing at the storm)
• Lack of protective bars (blockages with leaves and garbage)
• Poor sealing joints
• Lack of water drainage from the foundation

All these errors lead to premature wear of elements and a decrease in the effectiveness of the entire system.

The drainage system is not just an auxiliary element of the building, but its vital engineering part. The durability of the foundation, the safety of the facade, the safety of the territory and the comfort of the residents depend on its quality and correct installation. A competent selection of materials, the calculation of throughput, the aesthetics of execution and regular maintenance is the key that the drainage system will serve you for decades.

If you are at the stage of designing a house or planning a roof reconstruction, pay attention to the drainage system. This is an investment in the safety of your property and protection against destructive water force.

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