Gutter system – a structure of pipes and gutters, which is designed to divert rain and melt water to protect the basement and facade of the house from the negative effects of moisture. Properly installed gutter prevents the accumulation of moisture and the formation of ice on the roof, preventing the penetration of water into the living space, and also reduces the load on the rafters.
For a hip roof with long slopes it is necessary to use gutters to divert water in both directions. On short slopes, gutters are installed, through which the water is drained in one direction. Installation of the gutter system on houses with complex roof shapes should be done in such a way that water is drained from each slope. In order for the installation to be done correctly and efficiently, we recommend choosing gutter contractors carefully.
What should an ideal drainage system be like?
First of all, it should be reliable and airtight. Even in a heavy downpour, water should flow freely down the gutters into the drainage system, not splash out of the gutters and not splash the walls. Gutter system should be resistant to snow load, wind gusts, severe frost, sudden temperature changes, protected from icing and clogging leaves.
Secondly, to be durable in operation, as replacement and repair can be quite expensive.
Well, thirdly, which is also important, to have an aesthetic appearance! Gutter system should harmoniously fit into the exterior of the building, so that the material, shape and color of the elements of the structure correspond to the created image of the house.
Material of the drainage system
For the manufacture of elements of the gutter used various metals and plastics. The most popular are gutter systems made of galvanized steel with polymer coating and polyvinyl chloride.
Metal gutter
Galvanized steel with a polymer coating is an affordable design with high mechanical strength. In addition, the coating is performed in the same color scheme as the metal tile, so the exterior of the house looks harmonious and complete. The main condition for the durability of metal drainage system – preserving the integrity of the protective and decorative coating.
Plastic gutter
Plastic gutter systems are very popular, as they have good performance characteristics and do not increase the cost of construction. The material of the gutter is polyvinyl chloride, which is devoid of many disadvantages of metal structures and has a number of advantages:
- low noise level arising from the fall of raindrops;
- small mass significantly reduces the load on the elements of the building;
- no tendency to corrosion;
- easy installation;
- does not burn out as a result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
Method of installation of the drainage system
Assembly of the elements of the structure in a single system is carried out in two ways:
- With the help of glue. This technology is used in the installation of plastic gutters. For this purpose, adhesive compositions are used, which have moisture resistance, resistance to temperature fluctuations and provide tightness of the connection.
- With the help of seals and locks. Installation is much simpler compared to the use of glue. The seals ensure tightness of the connection and have a long service life. The technology is used in the installation of metal and some plastic gutters.
