Clogged Drain on a Flat Roof: Serious Problems Will Ensue
Clogged drain openings and water pipes are the most frequent problems and the most damaging for a flat roof.
Whether your membrane is new or old, no matter how good it is, the risk is very high and very serious that there will be major water infiltration. You must understand that, if the water pipe is clogged, it will be clogged somewhere between the basement and the roof. Therefore, the water remains stagnant in the pipes, which is in the walls, and the pipe is not designed for that (water must circulate in the pipe). As a result, the risk of water infiltration occurs at every juncture of the pipe, and water infiltration can happen at any floor between the floor of the basement and the ceiling of the top floor. The drain is at the low point of the roof, which means that all of the water from the roof goes down it, so imagine the extent of the infiltration. When the water level on the roof rises, it can overflow into any projections, boxes, skylights, etc. On the roof, the excess weight caused by water accumulation can cause damage to the structure or crack ceilings, and this is not a question of fear mongering, these are just facts that we see every year on flat roofs in Montreal. You must always ensure proper water evacuation.
Suggestion for Your Flat Roof
Annually, in the spring and the fall, check the drain opening to make sure there are no obstructions, and have your water pipe cleaned by a drain specialist (who is not necessarily a plumber) every 5 to 7 years. By doing so, you will have a better chance of avoiding some very serious problems. Jacques Perron Published December 13, 2012 Questions or Comments? Contact us!