Why Proper Drainage Is So Important For Arizona Commercial Roofs
Crucial Features For Good Water Drainage
Most commercial buildings have flat roofs, because they are frequently too large to make a pitched roof worth the expense and because a stylized roof is seldom needed. While a flat roof makes sense in most commercial building applications, it can also create challenges, especially with water drainage.
If you are unsure whether your commercial building’s flat roof is effectively draining water, or if you are looking to install a new roof on your building, contact an experienced Fountain Hills roofing company to make sure that you have all of the essential elements and a solid design before you begin the installation. Your contractor will make sure that you have three crucial features for good water drainage:
- Gutters: The most common drainage options for all types of roofs, gutters, are installed along the edges of the roof so that they will collect any water that may fall down or off of it. Long gutter pipes channel the water down the side of the building and away from its foundation. Some people are surprised to learn that gutters are effective even on a flat roof. Even if the roof is not pitched, water will still run to the sides of a flat roof, where a quality seamless gutter system should be installed to gather the water and move it away from the building. Gutters provide a cost-effective drainage system for virtually every home or commercial building and can be installed on both new and existing roofs with the help of a Phoenix roofing contractor.
- Interior Drains: Even with a quality seamless gutter system, water is still prone to pooling on the interior or center of a flat commercial roof. On a hot, sunny day, small puddles will quickly evaporate. But even very dry regions like Arizona can still expect occasional monsoons with intense rainfall, which can cause very large puddles that put weight on a flat roof. If not alleviated, this pressure can lead to interior or structural damage. The best remedy for large puddles that can collect on flat roofs is an interior drain system. With a grate on the top and a slight pitch, water will flow quickly into a catch basin, which is connected to piping that will direct the water down and away from the building, acting like an internal gutter system. However the installation will require the expertise of a skilled Chandler roofing company near me because the installation process will require carefully cutting through the roof, running the piping through the building, properly sealing the drain, and routing the water flow away from the foundation. Mistakes can cause leaks inside the building and hidden areas of water that lead to severe structural damage within the building, so it’s imperative to work with a Cave Creek new roof installation company that will get the job done right.
- Scuppers: Scuppers work in tandem with other drainage systems to keep water away from your commercial building’s foundation. They are specially designed to channel water away from the building so it doesn’t end up around the foundation, which can cause extensive and very expensive damage. Scuppers are intended to be used as part of a larger, comprehensive drainage system. They are attached to gutters, pipes, and interior drains, and should ultimately be installed in a drainage basin or other carefully designed system that will manage excessive water runoff. An experienced Gilbert roofing contractor can assess your commercial building and develop a personalized drainage system that will effectively remove water from your building’s flat roof.
Drainage Management Is Crucial
Whether you have a flat or pitched roof in a commercial or residential application, water management is one of the most crucial features of any structure. However, it’s especially important on a flat roof because pooling water can quickly put excessive pressure on your building, contributing to rot or weakening the interior structure. The best solution is to work with a Phoenix roofing company that understands the challenges of a flat roof and can provide tailored recommendations for your building. If you are ready for a new roof or are developing a new commercial building, talk through your drainage options with a trusted Peoria roofing contractor so you can be sure to get the best system for your needs.
Work With The Flat Roof Experts In Phoenix
Allstate Roofing is dedicated to providing quality and cost-effective services for commercial and residential customers throughout the Valley. Our knowledge, customer service, and extensive experience are why we have developed a reputation for being one of the best roofing companies in Phoenix. Contact us today to learn more about your roof options and to schedule your free estimate.