Guttering

All buildings, whether they are pitched or flat roof, need guttering. This is a drainage network of pipes which means that any rainwater does not remain on the roof but flows down to the ground avoiding any structural problems to the roof as well as to the building itself. Guttering can be made of a number of materials: vinyl, copper, zinc, steel and aluminium. As well as varying in material, guttering can vary in its shape and the diameter of its pipes. Ridged Crown or K-style guttering are the most common. Half Round guttering can have problems with overflow but can be easy to install and replace as it is attached by being suspended from the roof. By contrast, fascia guttering is attached to fascia boards at the ends of the rafters. Cold forming technology means that seamless guttering is increasingly being installed. This type of guttering can be measured and cut on site so there are fewer joins to be the source of potential leaks. Guttering is found on all buildings as a way to ensure that it is protected from the elements. The decision about which guttering to choose is made according to the amount of rainfall as well as the underlying roof structure itself.