How To Install Roof Drain in Phoenix AZ

Don’t let water damage your roof or property, learn how to install roof drain in Phoenix with these easy and practical steps!

Installing a roof drain can be a daunting task, but it is an essential component of any roofing system. A roof drain is critical in helping prevent water damage to your roof and property, and it ensures that water is properly channeled away from your building’s foundation. 

So in this blog, we will take you through the step-by-step guide on installing a roof drain in your Phoenix property. But before we dive into that, let us first discuss the different types of roof drainage systems and the materials you will need to prepare beforehand.

how to install roof drain

Types of Roof Drainage Systems

There are four primary types of residential roof drainage systems. Let’s discuss each one briefly:

  • Internal Drains: This drainage system is installed within the roof structure and collects water through a network of pipes and drains it to a designated outlet.
  • Scuppers: Scuppers are openings cut into the roof’s parapet or edge that allow water to flow out of the roof.
  • Gutters: Gutters are channels installed along the roof’s edge that collect water and direct it to downspouts.
  • Downspouts: These are the vertical pipes that carry water from the gutter or roof to the ground or designated drainage system.

Materials You Will Need

Before you start the installation process, it is essential to have all the necessary materials at hand. Here are the materials you will need:

  • A roof drain and strainer
  • A circular saw
  • A reciprocating saw
  • A drill and screws
  • Roofing cement
  • Flashing
  • Copper tubing
  • A propane torch
  • A level
  • A chalk line
  • A tape measure
  • Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Guide on How To Install Roof Drain

  • Step 1: Locate the Roof Drain Placement

    The first step is to locate where you want the roof drain placed. This is usually done during the design phase of the roofing project, but if you haven’t decided on a location, it’s important to consider where water is likely to accumulate on the roof.

    Once you’ve determined the location, use a chalk line to draw a circle that matches the size of the roof drain onto the roof’s surface. Next, use a reciprocating saw to cut out the circle you have marked.

  • Step 2: Install the Drain Body

    After cutting out the hole, insert the roof drain and align it so that it is level. Then, mark the location of the screw holes and remove the drain.

    Drill holes into the marked locations, and use screws to secure the drain body into place. Again, make sure the drain body is level, and use roofing cement to seal around the base of the drain.

  • Step 3: Install the Strainer

    After securing the drain body, the next step on how to install roof drain is to place the strainer on top and screw it in place. Make sure the strainer is centered over the drain to allow water to flow freely.

  • Step 4: Install the Drain Assembly

    The next step is to install the drain assembly. This includes a copper tube that extends from the roof drain to the outlet. To install the drain assembly, start by cutting the copper tubing to the required length using a circular saw.

    Next, connect the copper tubing to the roof drain using a propane torch and solder. Be careful when using a torch, and wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself.

    Once the tubing is connected to the roof drain, insert it into the outlet and secure it using screws. Make sure the tubing is level and sloping downwards towards the outlet to allow water to flow freely.

  • Step 5: Install Flashing

    After installing the drain assembly, it’s important to install flashing to seal the roof around the drain. Start by cutting the flashing to size and placing it over the drain assembly.

    Then, use roofing cement to seal around the edges of the flashing to prevent water from leaking into the roof.

  • Step 6: Test the Drain

    The final step is to test the drain to make sure it is functioning properly. Pour water onto the roof around the drain and observe how it flows into the drain.

    If water is not flowing freely or the drain is not draining properly, you may need to adjust the slope of the copper tubing or make other adjustments to ensure that the water flows freely into the drain.

Let Centrik Handle Your Residential Roof Drainage System!

If you don’t know how to install roof drain properly or you’re just not comfortable doing it on your own, then get in touch with our team of experts today. We’re not just a roofing contractor, we also specialize in house roof drainage systems so we can provide comprehensive protection to homes and businesses in Phoenix and its surrounding areas. Contact Centrik Roofing today to get a free on-site estimate!

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