Scupper Problems Flat Roof Damage

If water ponds on a flat roof it could lead to problems later on.

Scupper problems flat roof damage.

Flat roof drainage system specifications designs troubleshooting problems solutions for interior drains on flat building roofs flat roof drains scuppers and screens questions answers about keeping the flat roof drainage system working or about installing new drains in a flat roof. Each of these systems has its own pros and cons. Just like any roof a flat roof will develop leaks but since it s flat the water doesn t have anywhere to go but straight down. A major maintenance issue shared between all types of roof drains is debris removal.

Scuppers reinforce the roofing and prevent excess water from accumulating on the roof which can lead to significant water damage. Long term effects of ponding water on a flat roof. Regular cleaning and unblocking of the drains gutters and scuppers is mandatory. Any damaged components of the drainage system must be repaired quickly and correctly to ensure they continue to function as designed.

If your commercial building has a flat roof sometimes there is a problem with ponding water. The slope should be a minimum of 1 in 80 but in practice a minimum slope of 1 to 40 should be used to allow for deflection of the roof and for normal building tolerances. When clearing debris from around a drain or scupper don t just clear enough to get the water flowing. This is especially prevalent after a lot of rainstorms.

These problems could cause the roof to leak and severely damage the roof deck underlying structure and interior finishing. Water leaking through the roof could also cause fire and electric hazards. There are three types of drain systems commonly used on flat roofs. Of course the best designed flat roof has the correct amount of pitch to drain the water off naturally.

For clarity flat roofs actually have a slight slope to allow rain water to drain off the roof but they seem flat when compared with more traditional steeply sloped roofs. Leaks and moisture probably the most common problems with flat roofs leaks and lingering moisture are issues that can be dealt with effectively as long as you stay on top of them. This is because the flat roof can hinder drainage from rainwater which results in standing water on the roof. Strainer in leader header causing a blockage forcing water onto the flat roof through the scupper.

There are roof coating products available if there isn t enough slant or slope to accomplish this. Pooling water on a flat roof can cause problems such as pulled away flashing popped nails exposed railheads and the washing away of gravel or stone from the shingles. The biggest problem with flat roofs is standing water. The entire roof should be cleared to prevent the drain from becoming clogged again.

The extension on the leader header added to more problems. Most residential roofs are sloped to the edge and a gutter system catches the water. When combined with a complete drainage system the water accumulated is redirected preventing damage to the roof and structure.