Roof Drainage Solutions: Preventing Water Accumulation and Damage

Roofs are probably something you give very little thought to until they fail to function well. And, when a roof fails, everything underneath it is susceptible to harm.

You might think a good roof can hold up well against strong winds and impact. That is true, but the most serious threat to a roof is water. It can creep in quietly, causing serious damage without detection.

Fortunately, some tested roof drainage solutions can prevent that from occurring. This article covers some of the most common ones. Keep reading to learn more.

Address Sagging Spots

Especially if you have a flatter roof, addressing sagging spots is one of the best things you can do for long-term results. These can result from minor errors made during the installation process or weak spots in the roof structure.

They also can arise from impacts, such as from precipitation or debris. Whatever the cause, fixing slopes or dips in your roof can be a permanent fix to water accumulation issues.

Add or Widen Gutters

Adequate drainage is essential to any roof. Many people do not know that there are different types of gutters designed to accommodate the amount of water coming off a roof.

Especially during heavy rains or if you have a very large roof that catches a lot of water, drains can get backed up, leading to pooling. Also, having inadequate drainage means it is more likely that existing drains can become clogged, which can cause water accumulation as well.

A professional roofing contractor will be able to assess your drainage and determine whether it is sufficient. They can make recommendations about whether you should add drains or widen existing ones (or both).

Install Scuppers

Scuppers are drainage devices designed to propel water away from a space. You can install them along the edge of a roof or openings in outer walls. Placing them in strategic areas is an easy way to add more drainage capability.

Scuppers are also a great fix for inadequate gutters or ones that often get backed up, since scuppers rarely clog up. (Although, like gutters, you should check them on a regular basis to make sure there is no debris.) In addition to getting water off your roof, scuppers have the added advantage of helping move water away from your foundation.

Install Interior Roof Drains

Interior roof drains are very similar to those you would find in a shower or sink. You can place them in certain areas of the roof with sitting water.

Interior drains route water through a system of pipes that connect to gutters or otherwise drain it away from the building. They can be very effective roof drainage systems for your business, especially when other solutions are not viable.

Find Roof Drainage Solutions Near You

Now that you understand the basics of roof drainage, you can prevent water accumulation and potential damage to your building. An experienced professional roofing company can further advise you on solutions for your particular roof.

For over 30 years, Great Lakes Roofing has been providing the highest quality roof maintenance, repair, and installation services to the Chicago area. We pride ourselves on finding the right roofing solutions for each of your clients. Reach out to us today to discuss your drainage or other roofing issues.