Every building needs structure to protect itself from rain. Although the roof specifically has this role, it does not allow water to be discharged away from the foundations. Pipeline systems are needed. We are talking about gutters and gutters (if necessary). These help capture and direct water away from home. Having these elements in place helps prevent problems that will eventually require foundation repair.
Preventing water infiltration
Evacuating water that droins down a foundation is probably the best way to prevent water infiltration. The French drain,the gutters and the positive slopes have this role. Reducing the water load along a foundation by directing gutters in the right direction is just as essential. Otherwise we send hundreds of liters per year on the flooring. The higher the water load, the greater the riskof water infiltration.
Why channel water if my foundation is waterproof?
Just because a foundation has good waterproofing does not mean that water should not be channelled. The waterproofing membranes are able to prevent infiltration, but this is not a quick fix. A membrane can tear or pierce for any reason. In this situation, if a large amount of water is found near the flooring and there is a fault in the concrete, the water infiltration will be almost instantaneous.
The presence of water puts pressure on the foundation. The pressure caused by the freeze and thaw cycles is very strong. Depending on the type of soil and the condition of the concrete, this force can crack/break the foundation.
Gutters
Gutters have been used for centuries. Although it is a well-known system, we still see sections of roofs without pipes today. And yes, the building code does not require the installation of gutters. We strongly recommend installing them. The amount of water that comes from the roofs is enormous. Letting all this water fall along the foundation greatly increases the risk of foundation cracks.
The installation of gutters is not trivial. This pipe must have an adequate slope. It is necessary to determine the right exit points as well as the orientation. Exits should never be less than 1.5 metres from the foundation and obviously perpendicular to it. We recommend that the installation be given to a specialist. The inclination must be well calculated otherwise the efficiency of the pipeline system could be compromised.
There are several qualities of gutters.
- Vinyl
- Aluminium
- Galvanizing steel
- Copper
Vinyl gutters
Plastic gutters have the advantage of being economical. Plastic gutters are also easier to install. However, this material has a relatively short lifespan. If it breaks, you can’t fix the gutter.
Despite these disadvantages, it is much better to have vinyl gutters than nothing at all. Well installed and in good condition, they can very well protect a foundation.
Metal gutters
More expensive, but more durable! They have superior resistance at all levels, they are a wise choice for a system that will keep a soiling sheltered from long-term stormwater.
Gutters
For a concrete surface, solid pavement, asphalt and other watertight surfaces, it is sometimes necessary to install a gutter. If the slope of the surface does not allow the water to be channelled in the desired direction, another way to evacuate the water is needed. These U-shaped rooms are the solution to protect a garage, terrace, swimming pool, etc.
Setting up a gutter in a driveway is very common. Often the concrete slab in the garage is much lower than the street level. So we end up with a negative slope towards the garage slab. Like the foundation, there needs to be a way to protect it from water. In such a situation, a gutter is more than necessary to prevent water from seeping into the garage.
How do I choose the right type of gutter?
The right gutter will be chosen based on certain factors. It depends on the client’s budget, the amount of water to be discharged and the location. For the best choice, call VOPAA, a foundation repair specialist who also has extensive pipeline expertise.
The first thing to do is to estimate the amount of water to be discharged. This will determine the size of the gutter to be installed. The location of the gutter is another consideration. The available space and the maximum weight that passes through this area. A garage gutter must be covered with a solid mesh as vehicles will pass over them. We’ll choose a cast iron grid.
There are plastic gutters (PVC), concrete, polymer concrete, cast iron and more. The choice depends on the context and the budget.
How do I install a gutter?
Just like the gutters we recommend entrusting the work to professionals. A slight excavation is often necessary. Then there is the question of an inclination that must be made in the rules of the art and a solid granular material base. VOPAA has the expertise to install these pipeline systems.
Gutters and gutters play a key role in water drainage. The amount of water going to the French drain should always be minimized. The earthmoving and stormwater system are therefore essential for the protection of a foundation.