** Home Inspection No. 7 ** We are still under external inspection. Today I will discuss roof drainage.
** Home Inspection No. 7 **
We are still under external scrutiny. Today I will discuss the subject of roof drainage. As part of an inspection of homes with yards in South Florida, I often came across sloping roofs without a roof drainage system ("Getters" and "Down Spouts"). Although a roof drainage system is not required according to the "Building Code" (there is an obligation in Israel), its absence has significant negative consequences for the property. Explain: In the absence of a rainwater, rainwater drainage system (and in South Florida there are significant amounts of rainwater) that is spilled freely from the roof onto the roof perimeter, creating puddles of water near the building (and its foundations). This condition can lead to the development of serious structural and sanitary problems: (1) Saturated soil near the property can lose its ability to support the loads transferred to it and hence displacement of foundations, cracking of walls / floors / flooring / cladding and other significant damage, (2) water puddles attracting mosquitoes And pests. And here it is important to understand: a roof drainage system removes rainwater from the foundations of the building and prevents water from accumulating near it. There are different types of "Getters" and "Down Spouts" such as: vinyl, aluminum and stainless steel. Explain: A roof drainage system requires regular monitoring and maintenance, which includes cleaning "getters" of leaves, branches and debris. To sum up: in light of the above and in light of the low cost, relative to the value, my recommendation is that a beautiful roof drainage system should be installed one hour earlier. I will note that there is no obligation to issue a "permit" to install a roof drainage system, but it is recommended to perform a test in the local district before performing. When performing a home inspection I usually detail in the report (if applicable) the absence of a roof drainage system (including photos) and an installation recommendation. At your service: Kobi Barban, Home Inspector, 754-302-7224
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