Large commercial and residential flat roofs, especially those with parapet walls, are catchalls for any and all sort of debris, including leaves, twigs, plastic bags, etc.
Drains and debris don’t mix. A drain’s dome lets water flow through while catching debris, which would otherwise clog the plumbing. Unfortunately, this debris builds up around the drain dome, slowing or eventually stopping the water.
If water can’t drain away quick enough, you’ll be stuck with a series of pools around your roof. Pooling water can:
So, how do you avoid flat roof drain clogs?
The most obvious recommendation is to regularly inspect and clean your roof drains. At minimum, you should do this once a month.
Brush or pull away debris built up around the roof drain dome (or cover) and in the drain bowl. If you notice build up in the outlet or connected pipe, get a plumber to snake it out. Avoid using drain cleaner which can eat into the pipes, leading to larger and more expensive problems.
Regularly clean away any debris that may be on the roof deck itself. This is especially important to do after storms, windy days and in the fall if the roof is near any trees.
Drain dome slots come in different thicknesses based on the manufacturer, drain type and size. With larger drain domes, more debris can flow in, but they typically connect to wider piping, so this won’t lead to any significant clogs.
Talk to your roof drain sales rep about the roof size, average rainfall and exposure to debris to help find the right sized drain for your roof.
If you need replacement flat roof drains or parts, or simply want to speak to a drain expert, Hy-Tech Roof Drains is your source for competitively priced products, fast shipping, and immediate, knowledgeable support.