3 Effective Drainage Solutions for Flat Roofs

Flat roofs have been used in the United States for decades, especially for commercial construction projects. Unfortunately, their level design can cause rain and debris to accumulate over time, making it crucial for business owners to install a proper drainage system to prevent leaks and deterioration.

Generally speaking, there are three main types of drainage systems for flat roofs:

1. Interior drains: An interior drainage system is composed of drains placed at specific intervals at the center of the roof and a network of gutters and pipes that move water outward to the building’s exterior. These drains are typically topped by a strainer that catches leaves, sticks, and other debris before then can enter the pipes. Though this type of drainage solution can be virtually invisible to someone looking from the outside of the building, they can be expensive to install and will usually require a considerable investment.
2. Scuppers: Scuppers are outlets placed on the side of a building and the edges of the roof that are designed to drain water away from the building. Though scuppers are less expensive to install than an interior drainage system, they tend to work best on sloped structures or when paired with a tapered insulation system.
3. Gutters: Gutters are open pipes attached to the edges of a building’s roof which collect and drain water away from the building. Gutters can be attached to a roof without any modification, though they will need to be regularly cleaned to function properly.

Have Water Damage? Call Lyons Roofing

Unfortunately, many business owners discover the need for a proper drainage solution when it is already too late. If you have discovered a leak in your commercial roof, you need to act fast to contain the damage and protect your property against a major catastrophe. At Lyons Roofing, our knowledgeable Phoenix and Tempe roofers can provide the skilled and efficient repairs you need to keep your business open and avoid costly closures.

Find out more about our top-rated commercial roofing services by calling us today at (520) 447-2522.