Have you noticed that your rooftop has accumulated a lot of water and the drainage is not working as expected? Certain roofs may require a scupper box for this very reason. If you don’t know what a scupper box is, the best way to find out is to read this article. Our complete guide will explain which roofs require a scupper box and outline the primary examples of scuppers. Let’s start with a definition.
What is a scupper box?
Scupper boxes are components that manufacturers fabricate to provide water drainage from rooftops. The water may drain or run off through a wall or a metal edge. You may also know that scupper boxes are a type of overflow protection device that provides an extra drain for your roof.
When do you need a scupper box?
If you have a flat roof, you may need a scupper box. The main reason scupper boxes are essential in this situation is that if you have standing water on your flat rooftop, the water can leak into gaps and cracks. A scupper box, like a gutter, will ensure the water drains efficiently for a determined roof.
What are the main materials for scupper boxes?
Some of the main materials for scupper boxes include:
- Copper
- Galvanised steel
- Stainless steel
- Sheet metal
However, many manufacturers can make a scupper box from any other pre specified material.
Are scupper boxes made of aluminium?
Some scupper boxes are made of aluminum, but roofer experts don’t use this material for certain scuppers due to soldering difficulties and shaping challenges.
Is there any difference between a drain and a scupper?
There’s one noticeable difference between a drain and a scupper. While roof scuppers form a part of the drainage system and drain water off a metal edge, a drain connects to piping which guides the water from the roof. When installing a drain, you can position them in the centre of the roof, directing the water via a sidewall.
Is there any difference between a gutter and a scupper?
Yes, there is a difference between a gutter and a scupper. If you get a ladder roof hook and inspect your rooftop, you’ll notice that the water enters the channel through the top with a gutter. In contrast, water enters a scupper through the side of the wall.
Do scuppers need downspouts?
Using a downspout is a good idea if you want to divert the water effectively with a scupper box. Choosing one will depend on your project’s specifications. You’ll find that a scupper is fully compatible with a downspout, and if you haven’t connected a scupper box with a downspout, this can lead to a waterfall effect. The foundation can erode with so much water falling through the scupper on its own.
Which particular scupper requires a downspout?
The main scupper that requires a downspout is the through-wall scupper. The water will travel through the scupper off the flat roof and into the downspout.
What are the primary examples of roof scuppers?
You can select from three critical examples of roof scuppers, including:
- Through-wall scuppers
- Channel scuppers
- Round or decorative scuppers
Since scuppers vary, let’s think about the differences between these three.
What is a through-wall scupper?
A through-wall scupper is a drainage tool to pass or drain water through a parapet wall. You can use this type of scupper with a roof that may be flat but have a raised edge, helping the water to pass through the wall and avoid getting stuck behind it on the flat roof.
Where would you find a wall scupper?
You’re likely to find a wall scupper on an apartment or commercial building’s roof. Although it’s rare to find them on residential homes’ roofs, you might still want to install one here if you have a flat rooftop.
What is an open-channel scupper?
An open channel scupper is another drainage tool that has three sides, although other examples are round and use sheet metal. The open channel scupper enables the water to run down a building’s side.
What is the structure of an open-channel scupper?
A professional roofer will make an open channel scupper with a metal lining that’s integrated and mixed with coping and other types of metal. Roofers will use a few other materials, such as resin, when lining the scupper.
What is a round scupper?
Round scuppers are also known as decorative scuppers. They’re called round scuppers because the tube that the water escapes through is round, while for decorative scuppers, you can get parts custom fabricated or custom manufactured.
What is the right size for a round scupper?
Remember that the diameter can’t be less than four inches or 102 millimetres when you choose a round scupper. It’s also important that the width at least matches the roof drain circumference.
Consider a scupper box for a flat roof to increase drainage efficiency
Scupper boxes are the ideal solution for increasing the drainage efficiency of your roof, which you can install without much trouble with the correct tools. Customers can request vendors to deliver the best tools to their site, making it easy for you or your contractors to finish a scupper installation project. Contact us by phone or fax for the tools you require.