Downpipes

About 

A downpipe is a get-away route for rainwater entering the gutter system, also taking with it debris, twigs, sediment, and animal droppings. Downpipes carry the water from the building to drain it out where the water flows away from the premises. 

Although it might not be as prominent and impressive to look at as compared to the gargoyle waterspouts of the old days, a regular downpipe is sufficient to keep the rainwater from damaging the property. So besides installing drains, it's integral to get a downpipe put in place. And for all complex rainwater management jobs, consider hiring a professional.

Advantages And Application 

An adequately fitted downpipe, rainwater heads, and guttering system will ensure that the inside of the house is safe from water damage. 

Most of the time, homeowners landscape and renovate their properties without accounting for potential rainwater, only to find puddles after the rain.  

Areas on the sides of the home can get soaked and sometimes even flood because of rainwater. This typically happens in gardens. 

Additionally, rainwater can also infiltrate the basement walls after a storm, resulting in a flood inside the premises. 

Therefore, cleanup and restoration of affected areas can be pretty expensive, alongside exposing a risk of weakening the property's foundations. 

This is where the gutter downpipes come in. Downpipes along with roof flashings and cappings are highly effective in collecting the rainwater from the roofs. 

Talking About The Types

The property's location is crucial to consider when selecting the best materials for a guttering or downpipe installation job. 

As metal has more endurance than plastic, metal fares are considered better for properties in areas with frequent extreme weather, such as scorching heat or heavy snow.

Having said that, here are the most common build-materials used to make downpipes:

Coated Steel

Steel roof drains are better in areas that receive heavy rainfall because they don't harbour obstructions and allow a seamless water flow.

And although steel might be subjected to rusting, zinc alloy and galvanized steel will maintain their shine. 

Not only this, but painted steels come in differing colours ranges to match the property. Moreover, steel is also recyclable.

PVC

PVCs are best suited for areas that have moderate climates, i.e., light rain at most. This is a cheaper option, which:

• Requires low maintenance
• Is UV safe
• Would not erode
• Is safe for water collection

However, PVC is breakable and might crack after some time. Therefore, they may have to be replaced sooner than other alternatives. 

Copper

This is most commonly found on really old properties. Besides being rust-resistant, copper is also suitable for harsh weather. 

In addition, copper fights against growing bacteria and is also eco-friendly as it can be recycled. But as the prices of copper rise, this becomes an expensive option, generally more costly than other options. 

Pre-Painted Aluminum

This method is more long-lasting than steel but is also more expensive. However, it is entirely waterproof.

More than that, similar to steel, it comes in multiple colors ranges to compliment the property.

Considerations

A downpipe should have enough capacity to carry the flow of water into the gutter with speed so that it won't flow back. 

Therefore, if one lives in an area that experiences heavy rainfalls, it is best to have larger downpipes and bigger gutters to handle the massive flow of water.

Furthermore, larger downpipes that reroute more water are not easy to block, which is also essential to consider. 

Another thing to think about is how they look. One should ideally blend the downpipes with the colour of the building. 

Remember, downpipes are available in a vast range of colours and shades. Like spouting and gutters, one can make the downpipe match the building's exterior design for a flush look. 

Additionally, downpipes typically come in round and square shapes. The square downpipes come with dedicated clips to fit flush with the walls. 

On the other hand, the round-shaped downpipes are usually used in old homes and are clip-attached to walls. 

Installation

Replacing an old guttering system or installing a new one usually requires:

• Specialized equipment
• Complete removal of the existing system
• Sufficient space for the new system 

Undoubtedly, the installation cost depends on the size of the roof, design, and access problems. And the installation time for a standard 3-bed semi should take a day if done DIY. 

However, if the job is left for professionals, it should be done in less time.

Care And Maintenance

A sound guttering system can last for twenty to fifty years, but it would require proper care, maintenance, and durable components. 

Guttering inspections at regular intervals are a good way to prevent rust, damages, or decay. However, regular inspections can be a daunting task. Hence, experts recommend surveying it twice a year. 

Moreover, if one lives near trees, then checking thrice a year would be a good idea. Also, when checking, try to thoroughly inspect the downpipe and pay close attention to any signs of blockage because if the pipe is choked, it can cause drainage problems.