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.

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