Protect the integrity of your roofing system, your building and everything in it by including roof deck drainage with your new roof installation and maintaining any systems currently in place. Incorporating a drainage system into the roof deck layer of your roof, helps prevent water accumulation. Without this system, a building may be more likely to experience frequent leaks, as well as damage to the roof and the overall structure of the property. Learn more about the importance of a roof deck drainage system below.
What is a roof deck drainage system?
The roof deck component of the various layers of a roofing system is very different from a rooftop deck. Roofing materials, like slate or asphalt, are actually placed on top of the roof deck. The roof deck layer provides a level and stable foundation that helps support weight distribution and the roof’s overall structure. This component also helps protect the roof and the very structure of the building against the elements, so incorporating a drainage system further helps safeguard homes and buildings. Professional roofers, like Ranch Roofing, can help you determine the roofing system, roof decking and drainage approach that will work best for your home and the various weather conditions across our area’s seasons.
How does a roof deck drainage system work?
Gutters and downspouts are some of the more familiar and visible components of a roof deck drainage system. When water accumulates from rain or other weather, the roof drains or openings in the roof deck ensure that this water is directed to the gutters along the edge of the roof. Then, the downspouts (vertical piping) transport the water to the ground. Other components of a drainage system may include scuppers if the roof walls are too low for traditional gutters, additional piping or a sump pump to move water away from the building, and drain grates or covers to reduce the potential for clogging. When all of these components are working in harmony and at maximum efficiency, a roof deck drainage system can help extend the lifespan of a roof.
Why is roof deck drainage important?
Roof deck drainage is crucial for the overall integrity and longevity of your roofing system, building structure and safety of both inhabitants and property. In addition to its role in preventing water accumulation and problems associated with that buildup, here are some of the other reasons that having a roof deck drainage system is beneficial:
- Roof materials, like shingles and flashing, deteriorate faster if repeatedly impacted by standing water or significant amounts of moisture. These same factors can contribute to mold and mildew growth, which can also compromise the integrity of the roofing system. Dry rot can also be a serious problem for homeowners and may stem from drainage issues. To optimize your investment in your roof, especially a new roofing installation, it’s important to support its lifespan with a drainage system.
- Autumns are beautiful, but drain grates are imperative for helping keep fall leaves and other debris from clogging the gutters and other parts of the drainage system. (These other fall roof clean-up tips can also help support roof health!) When those winter storms arrive, the efficiency of a drainage system becomes even more important, since snow can add extra weight to the roof and ice dams may form. Well-maintained and effectively operating roof deck drainage systems support the removal of melting snow and ice, which reduces the chances of ice dam formation and weight-related structural damage or collapsed roofing, as well the leaks and interior damage.
- In addition to protecting the roof and the structure of the home itself, a roof deck drainage system lessens the potential for costly repairs related to leaks and water damage. Preserve the integrity of ceilings, walls and insulation as well as furniture, carpets, artwork and other interior features by ensuring the presence and effective functioning of roof deck drainage.
For over 25 years, Ranch Roofing has provided local communities with quality roofing installations and roofing services, like roof repairs, roof venting and skylight upgrades. We understand that our clients want to extend the life of their existing or new roof for as long as possible, and a roof deck drainage system can help achieve this goal. Contact our team today for a free estimate, so we can start consulting with you about your upcoming project.