How Do Rainwater Drainage Systems Work?

1. How Do Rainwater Drainage Systems Work? For anyone living in a region with a damp climate such as the UK, a rainwater drainage system is essential. Providing valuable protectionagainstheavy rainfall, a rainwater system that is properly installed can save thousands of poundsworth of damage being done and ensure the comfort and safety of the homeowner and their family. The rainwater drainage system is made up of a number of important parts, each contributing a valuablerole that ensures the optimalfunctioning of the entire system. So, what are these parts and how do they ensure the protection of a property in heavy weather? As many may be able to imagine, guttering is one of the key parts of an effective rainwater drainage system. When rain falls on a property, guttering is the first in line to catch water and channel it safely away as it falls on your roof. The guttering directs water to downpipes, which are the next essential part of the rainwater drainage system. These channel water down and away from the home making way for the next volume of water that the guttering collects. The part that delivers collected rainwater into the downpipe is called a gutter outlet, and this is usually straight in shape. However, homes with overhangingeaves sometimes need the installation of a specialdouble bend gutter outlet known as a swan neck. It is important for every homeowner to check on a regular basis that the guttering and downpipes are working effectively. If water is spilling over the sides of guttering or leaking from a downpipe, this may be a sign of a blockage somewhere in the system. Clearing this blockage will make sure that the entire rainwater drainage system will start functioning as normal again. The standard size of guttering that any home should have is at least 100mm wide. This sizeis normallysufficient to handle atypical heavy downpour of rain. On the other hand, property owners in areas that suffer with particular heavy rainstorms may consider investing in a high capacity rainwatersystem to better meet their needs. High capacity guttering and downpipes are larger in diameter and will be better able to cope with the increased volumes of water they need to carry. A professional will be best placed to advise you on the particular needs of your property in order to ensure maximum protection of your home in heavy weather. After the water has travelled through the guttering, gutter outlets and downpipes, it is disposed of via a gully. This part of the rainwater drainage system is a drain at ground level which delivers water into undergrounddrainage pipes.

2. Gullies can unfortunately suffer from blockages as much as guttering and downpipes; this is usually a seasonal occurrence caused by falling leaves in the autumn or other debris blown there by the wind. Similarly to other parts of the rainwater drainage system, gullies should be checked regularly for blockages and measures taken to unblock them if necessary. There are a few materials that are commonly used to manufacture a rainwater drainage system. The most common material is PVCu, which is a relatively inexpensive and efficient option for the typical homeowner. Older properties may have cast iron rainwater drainage systems, and although these can be more attractive, they usually require more maintenance. Another option is installing an aluminium rainwater system. This is considered the most efficient choice due to its durable and low-maintenance nature, although it is more expensive making it possiblyunnecessary for homeowners with smaller budgets. These are the basics of any rainwater drainage system. With a few main components that work efficiently together, and available in a variety of materials, the rainwater drainage system is an essential solution for protecting your home against the worst of bad weather conditions. About Us: Plastic Centre is a leading UK stockist of plastic building supplies for the domestic, commercial and trade markets. With over 4,000 different products available, Plastic Centre stocks an extensive range of Rainwater (Plastic Guttering), Underground Soil Waste Systems, PVC-UE Cellular Foam products, Fascia and Soffits in all finishes, a wide variety of Foils and many more. Other popular products from Plastic Centre are UPVC Windows, Doors, Conservatories and Double Glazed Units. Plastic Centre also offers a bespoke made-to-measure service which can be supplied and fitted as per the customer’s requirements. As well as guaranteeing both high quality products and a reliable delivery service, the customer care team at Plastic Centre are extensively trained and are available to provide valuable assistance and advice to every client. Find out more at: http://www.plasticcentre.co.uk