Gutter systems: what to choose after completing roof construction
Once the walls are built, the roof is installed, the windows are installed, and the chimneys are capped, construction moves into a new phase. The question for developers is: what work should be done next?
Practice shows that private developers usually choose one of two paths:
Internal works — when there is an urgent need to quickly start moving into a new home, but there is not enough money for exterior decoration.
Facade work — especially relevant when walls need urgent protection from weather conditions (such as OSB boards or aerated concrete).
In fact, there can be many options for the development of events, as circumstances often arise that force you to change the order of work. However, after arranging the roof, experts strongly advise you to organize the drainage of water from the roof as a priority.
Why is drainage a priority?
Imagine: rainwater flows from the roof onto the beautiful facade of a new house, washing away all the dirt and dust. A swamp forms around the building, the basement fills with water. The biggest threat is that uncontrolled precipitation gradually washes away the foundation, which can lead to uneven settlement or even skewing of the structure.
That's why the movement of precipitation from the roof must be under control! A gutter system helps with this.
Types of drainage systems
There are several proven methods of organized drainage on the market. In addition, craftsmen invent their own variations of drains. Such attention confirms the importance of this communication for the proper functioning of the building.
A drainage system consists of many components: gutters, pipes, funnels, branches, elbows, clamps, etc. Therefore, it is more correct to talk about drainage systems.
These structural elements have different names among the people: drains, water drains, spillways, outfalls, storm sewers.
Building codes distinguish between internal and external gutters. Factory products that meet established standards are divided into metal and plastic.
Plastic drainage systems
Plastic gutters are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In its pure form, this material has low frost resistance, poor heat resistance, and a low strength threshold. To produce high-quality products, special substances are added to PVC to improve its properties.
Advantages of plastic gutters:
- Affordable price (sales leaders in Ukraine)
- Scratch resistance
- Noise insulation
- No corrosion
- Ease of installation
Disadvantages:
- Color change under ultraviolet light
- Brittleness at low temperatures
- Deformation at temperatures above +30°C
Metal gutters
Metal gutters have a wide classification due to the variety of raw materials. These can be cast iron products, galvanized steel products (often with a polymer coating), as well as systems made of non-ferrous metals and alloys (aluminum, copper, titanium-zinc).
The main advantages of metal systems:
- Burnout resistance
- High strength
- Independence from temperature fluctuations
- Long service life (25-50 years)
- Aesthetic appeal
Disadvantages of steel and galvanized gutters:
- Baseness
- More complicated installation
- High cost
If handled carelessly, dents and scratches may appear on thin sheet steel, which will later become rust spots. The difficulty of installation lies precisely in the need for careful handling of the elements.
Non-ferrous metal gutters combine all the advantages of galvanized systems and are not subject to corrosion. They are durable, retain their aesthetic appeal, and some even acquire sophistication over time (for example, copper is covered with a beautiful patina). The only drawback is the extremely high cost.
Visnovki
A drainage system is an important structural element of every building. Regardless of the method of arrangement and the material of manufacture, its presence will ultimately save your home from many problems.
It is recommended to make the choice carefully, objectively assessing all the pros and cons. It is also important not to forget about the issue of installation, on which the durability of the drainage system largely depends.