Roof drainage allows the proper flow of water from the roof, during heavy rainfall or snow. It is meant to keep the roof clean and remove the debris and water, which would otherwise accumulate on the roof, which in turn would cause structural issues. Also, standing water on the roof may also seep inside the walls gradually. This kind of water damage is very expensive to repair. It may eventually lead to problems in the foundation and also mould growth inside the house, which is very harmful.
Roof drainage is extremely important for the house and the flatter the roof, more important the drainage system, as the water does not slide down on its own.
A home inspection is done to ensure all structural components of the home are sufficiently maintained and to identify any potential problems that might exist. It is critical to be sure that the buyer is making the right decision about buying the home in question or not. The inspector will further examine everything from the roof drainage system to the underground septic tank. He doesn’t deal with the value of the house that is done by the home appraiser, but his report about the well-being of all the systems in the house, does have an effect on the value. For a good value of the house, it is important that the house roof drainage be well maintained. It is the key to the extended life of the house.
Roof drainage is basically divided in 3 parts –
1. Internal drains – Placed throughout the roof for drainage, then connected to the scuppers.
2. Scuppers – are meant for the water to leave the roof and then it enters the gutters or downspouts
3. Gutters – should ideally be large so that all the water as well as the debris, like leaves etc. get washed/ drained away properly and don’t get stuck or cause water clogging.
A good home inspector checks all the 3, if there is any damage physically or any water clogging because of debris stuck in the internal drain or scupper or gutters. Also, he checks if there are any leaks or if the gutters are too small for the amount of water drainage. One must also take care that the gutters are properly joined to the structure, so that they don’t break if there is a storm, when they are needed maximum. One must get the drainage system checked annually, before the rainy season, for the efficient working of the drainage system. The home inspector’s report should also be considered seriously about the repair, clean or change of the entire system or part of it.