Understanding Roof Gutters
Roof gutters, sometimes called troughing, are essential components of any building’s drainage system. They are channels installed along the lower edges of roofs, designed to collect rainwater and direct it away from the building through downpipes and into ground drains. This seemingly simple system plays a crucial role in preventing water damage to your property, protecting your foundations, walls, and landscaping.
Evolution of Gutter Materials
Historically, roof gutters were crafted from materials like wood or cast iron. Today, you’ll find that PVC, aluminum, and zinc alume-coated steel are the most common materials used in gutter construction.
Why Choose PVC Gutters?
In Indonesia, PVC roof gutters have emerged as a popular choice for their durability and cost-effectiveness. They are available in two primary profiles:
- Half-round gutters: While available, these are not recommended due to their lack of strength and unreliable brackets.
- Square section gutters (box gutters): These are a better choice, known for their robust construction and availability in two sizes—15 cm and 20 cm wide. They also come with a range of fittings, such as connectors, right angles, end pieces, and downpipe connectors.
Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide
Proper installation is crucial for the effective performance of your roof gutters. Here’s how to ensure the job is done right:
- Cutting and Connecting: Use a hacksaw to cut the PVC gutters and solvent cement to connect them; do not use PVC glue, it will cause leaks.
- Brackets: Utilize high-quality PVC brackets designed for square section gutters. Ensure brackets are installed every 60 cm, as water is heavy when a gutter is full.
- Alignment and Slope: Gutters must be installed straight with a slight slope towards the downpipe, this can be achieved by using a string line and a water level to establish a 2% slope.
- Joints: Make sure joints are well cleaned and sealed with solvent cement to avoid leaks.
- Checking Levels: It’s recommended to check the levels using a clear plastic tube filled with water.
Avoiding Common Installation Mistakes
- Wavy Gutters: If the installed gutters appear wavy, they are not straight enough and may pop out of their brackets.
- Bowed Gutters: A common mistake is allowing gutters to bow in the middle, this causes water to collect and possibly overflow.
- Fascia Boards: Fascia boards should be installed vertically for easy gutter installation; this may meet with resistance from builders or architects who may not understand the issue.
Overflow Protection
Good-quality gutters have overflow slots, ensuring that if water overflows, it runs away from the building rather than into the roof space.
Availability
Square PVC gutters and their fittings are widely available at most building and hardware shops.
Conclusion
Investing in a well-planned and correctly installed roof gutter system using high quality PVC materials is a sound choice, protecting your property for years to come. Remember that even the best materials will underperform if not installed correctly, so make sure the work is done by skilled and experienced professionals.
