Every building, whether office building, hotel, hospital or residential property has rainwater drainage systems. We have always just accepted that they are there, those semi circular or squared strips that run along the edge of the roof, leading to a downpipe, but do you know why you have them and why you need to regularly inspect and maintain them to ensure that they are working at their best?
The first benefit of rainwater drainage systems is that they reduce the risk of walls getting wet when it rains. As you can imagine all the water that accumulates on the roof needs to run somewhere. If these systems were not in place, the water would simply run from the roof down the walls, which could lead to dampness and even leaks in the long run. It is much cheaper to ensure your systems are working properly and are debris free than having to fix a serious damp problem on your property.
Another benefit of rainwater drainage systems is that they steer water in a direct and chosen line, away from the property. This means the water runs into the drainage system and then proceeds to be pushed along the guttering to a downpipe. The downpipe is then linked to a storm water drain which washes away under the road and away from your property.
Rainwater drainage systems reduce the risk of leaks within the property. When it comes to rain there is always a risk that water will get into the building at some point. While roofs will need to be checked, it is also important to have the right systems in place to reduce the risk. Focusing on using rainwater draining systems can be an effective solution, pushing water away and reducing the risk of wet ceilings and walls moving forward, both of which can cost you a considerable sum of money in the long run.
These days these systems are available in PVC, a plastic, which is lightweight, durable and affordable. This makes the rainwater drainage systems easy to install, eliminates the risk of rust and can be cut to the length you need to reduce the risk of seams. Often you will find with these systems, the water will leak from the guttering at the seam, so less seams means the less likely you will have water dripping from your gutters.
Rainwater drainage systems are highly effective in rainwater harvesting. You can purchase rain barrels at just about any gardening store which is connected to the downpipe, collecting the rain water which you can then use to water your garden and save on the amount of water you use from your taps.
It is imperative to ensure you follow the maintenance instructions for rainwater drainage systems to ensure that when the winter hits and it rains day after day you are prepared. This means taking the time every few weeks to climb the ladder and check that the guttering isn’t filled with leaves and other debris which may affect water flow. It also requires you pour water along the pipes, checking for leaks. Leaks in the system is relatively easy to repair and it’s always best to get this completed before the wet seasons.
Installation is a major benefit to the rainwater drainage systems. Due to the lightweight of the PVC material, it is easy to install the systems with two people. In addition to this, the material can easily be cut to ensure you achieve the right lengths. PVC rainwater drainage can also be purchased in long lengths, which are highly beneficial and reduces the number of seams you need.