Are you considering installing or upgrading your home’s drainage system in Bali? Gutters and downpipes are essential components that protect your property from water damage. While many houses in Bali traditionally forgo gutters, there are significant benefits to incorporating them into your construction or renovation plans.

Why Install Gutters?

Gutters, also known as troughing, play a critical role in managing rainwater. Here’s why they are a worthwhile investment:

• Accessibility: Gutters prevent water from cascading off the roof, making doorways and walkways accessible even during heavy downpours.
• Erosion Control: They prevent ground erosion by directing water away from the foundation of your house.
• Flood Prevention: Gutters can help alleviate flooding by channeling rainwater to designated areas.
• Water Conservation: By guiding water to a soak pit or old well, gutters can replenish the water table. This is a vital consideration given Bali’s growing water concerns.

PVC Gutters: A Practical Choice for Bali

PVC (plastic) gutters and downpipes are readily available in Bali with all necessary fittings. They are cost-effective and relatively easy to install, provided you plan the installation carefully.

Avoiding Common Installation Mistakes

When installing gutters, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Insufficient Slope: Gutters should be installed with a proper slope to ensure proper water flow.
• Sagging: Avoid sagging by installing the gutters correctly, as this will cause water to pool.
• Inadequate Size: Ensure that the gutters are large enough to handle the volume of water from your roof, especially during Bali’s heavy rains.
• Poor Brackets: Use sturdy brackets that can support the weight of a full gutter.
• Undersized Downpipes: Downpipes must be appropriately sized to manage the water flow.
• Incorrect Joining: Use PVC solvent cement for joining the PVC, not just glue to prevent leaks.

Round vs. Square Gutters: Which is Right for You?

Gutters come in two main profiles: round (semi-circular) and square box gutters.

• Round Gutters: These are known for their self-cleaning properties. As water levels decrease, the flow concentrates in a smaller area, maintaining speed and washing away debris.
• Square Gutters: While not self-cleaning, square box gutters are recommended for Bali due to their strength, larger water capacity, resistance to buckling and availability of robust brackets.

Choosing the Right Brackets

• Bracket Quality: Square gutters should be installed with strong plastic brackets that can securely hold the gutter in place.
• Number of Brackets: Use sufficient brackets, placing them as close as 60 cm apart, to handle the heavy weight of water. Contractors often under install brackets so be careful.

Slope and Downpipes

• Proper Slope: Plan the gutter slope carefully, using a 1% to 2% incline, to facilitate water flow.
• Downpipe Placement: Ensure that enough downpipes are installed to manage the water from the roof area.

Preserving Water and the Environment

Consider channeling rainwater back into the water table through a soak pit or old well rather than into the drains. This is a sustainable practice that can contribute to Bali’s water supply.

Protect Your Investment

• Paint Your Gutters: Always paint your plastic gutters, brackets, and downpipes to protect them from UV damage. The intense Balinese sun can cause unpainted plastic to fade and become brittle.

By considering these factors, you can ensure your gutter system is durable, efficient, and contributes to the longevity of your home in Bali.