Gutters are an inexpensive drainage option that are quick and easy to install.  They direct the flow of rainwater to certain corners of your home, which reduces the amount of water haphazardly running off your roof. This means that water won’t drain into your windows and doorways, which minimizes leaks.

The main drawback with gutters is that you’ll need to clean them regularly since they can easily become clogged with debris, and if they become too clogged, they will stop draining all together.  One way to minimize gutter clutter is to ask your residential roofing contractor to add screens to the gutters themselves.

Also keep in mind that ice can accumulate in gutters during colder months, which can lead to cracking. Your roofing company should be able to provide you with information on which gutter materials are more durable and less prone to cracking.

Scuppers are creative drainage systems consisting of curves in the roofline and drainage holes placed in a home’s exterior walls. Scuppers add extra curb appeal while protecting your roof and your home’s foundation from water build up. A scupper system drains water off the roof at an angle, as opposed to simply allowing it rush down the sides of the home.

Scuppers are low-cost, low-maintenance and don’t clog.  There’s an option to attach a scupper system to a gutter or drainage pipe, but this isn’t absolutely necessary and will require extra maintenance to keep clean.

Inner drains are more commonly used in commercial buildings, but they are still a viable option for homes too. Inner drain systems consist of a drainage hole placed near the center of the roof, which is attached to a system of pipes that allow the water to drain down and then out. Inner drains keep water from damaging walls and the home’s foundation. This system style is more expensive to install, but does come with the option of adding customized fittings to add to the aesthetic of your home.

Because the drains are inside the roof, you won’t need to worry as much about freezing or cracking.  The flipside is that it will still require cleaning to prevent clogging, which usually requires a trained technician. There is an option to add strainers, however, which will reduce the risk of clogging and minimize maintenance costs.

Flat roofs are relatively cheap in comparison to their sloped siblings, but lack of drainage can create serious problems in a short amount of time.  Installing a good drainage system is the only way to prevent structural damage, and leaks in doors, windows and walls.  Before making a final decision regarding a drainage system for your home, speak with a residential roofing contractor to discuss pricing, as well as the pros and cons of each for your home’s design.

Contact the roofing experts at MK Custom Roofing today if you’re in the market for a new flat roof, or need a drainage solution for your existing flat roof.