What Are Scuppers? An Easy Guide

When you look at a building, especially one with a flat roof, you might see a little opening or hole near the edges. This is called a scupper. But what exactly is a scupper, and why is it important? Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand.

What Is a Scupper?

A scupper is a drainage system that allows water to flow off a flat roof, a deck, or a structure. It helps prevent water from pooling up on top of the building, which could cause damage. You can think of it like a drain that lets water escape so it doesn’t build up and flood the roof.

How Do Scuppers Work?

Scuppers are placed around the edge of a roof. When it rains, water collects on the roof. Without a way for the water to go, it could cause leaks, damage the roof, or even make the roof collapse. Scuppers let the water flow off the roof safely.

Here’s how they work:

1. Water collects on the roof: During rain or snow, water gathers on the flat roof.

    

2. Water flows to the scupper: The scupper is placed at the edge of the roof to collect the water.

    

3. Water flows out: The scupper lets the water flow out and into a gutter or downspout, where it is carried away from the building.

    

Where Are Scuppers Found?

Scuppers are commonly found on flat roofs, which are roofs that don’t have much slope. In buildings like warehouses, factories, or some houses with flat roofs, you will often see scuppers used to control the water.

Some scuppers are part of a gutter system, while others may lead water straight to the ground. In other cases, scuppers might lead water into a drainage pipe or system that carries the water away from the building.

Why Are Scuppers Important?

Without scuppers, rainwater could get trapped on the roof, which could:

• Damage the roof: Too much water on a roof can weaken the materials and cause leaks.

   

• Cause mold or mildew: Standing water can lead to mold growth, which can harm the building and your health.

   

• Cause flooding: If water can’t escape, it could start to overflow into the building, damaging walls and ceilings.

   

Types of Scuppers

There are different types of scuppers depending on the roof’s design. Some common types include:

1. Open Scuppers: These are simple holes or openings in the roof where water flows out directly.

    

2. Scuppers with Gutters: Some scuppers are connected to gutters that carry the water further away from the building.

    

3. Through-Wall Scuppers: These are scuppers that go through the side of a building, allowing the water to flow out of the structure.

    

Are Scuppers and Roof Drains the Same?

Although scuppers and roof drains both help manage water on a roof, they are a little different. Roof drains are typically placed in the middle of the roof and are used to collect water and send it through pipes to the ground. On the other hand, scuppers are placed at the edge of the roof and allow water to flow off directly, often into a gutter system.

How Are Scuppers Installed?

Installing scuppers usually requires a professional. Here’s the general process:

1. Choosing the Right Location: The scupper should be placed where water is likely to collect and where it can flow off the roof easily.

    

2. Creating the Opening: A hole is made in the edge of the roof to create the scupper.

    

3. Connecting to a Gutter: If the scupper needs to drain into a gutter or downspout, the professional will connect it properly.

    

How Do You Maintain Scuppers?

Like any part of your house, scuppers need some care to stay in good working condition:

• Clean regularly: Leaves, dirt, and debris can clog up the scupper. It’s important to clean it out, especially after a storm.

   

• Check for damage: Over time, scuppers can get damaged, so make sure there are no cracks or blockages.

   

• Inspect the gutters: If the scupper leads into a gutter system, make sure the gutters are clear too.

   

Conclusion

Scuppers are simple but very important parts of a building’s drainage system. They help keep roofs from flooding, prevent damage, and allow rainwater to safely escape. By understanding what scuppers are and how they work, you can better appreciate how they help protect buildings from water damage. If you have a flat roof, checking your scuppers and keeping them clean can help your roof stay in top shape for years to come.

Let the Scupper Experts at Premier Commercial Roofing Help

Premier Commercial Roofing is here to guide you through the process, offering expert advice and tailored solutions to ensure your roof stays dry and safe. Contact us today, and let’s protect your property with the right scupper system for your needs.