Homeowners who have a pitched conservatory roof that slopes down towards the house wall need to have a fully functional boxed gutter.
A boxed gutter is typically an aluminium rectangular box that is connected to the side guttering on UPVC conservatories, ensuring the water from both roofs drains away from the house. However, with timber frame ones, these gutters are usually lined with lead.
The water collected is then diverted to the downpipe, so the water runs away from the walls.
Boxed guttering takes its name from being boxed in on all sides, making them watertight.
Internally, the boxed gutter will be covered up by UPVC or wood to disguise it and keep the roof looking aesthetically pleasing.
To find out more about the importance of boxed guttering by reading on.
For water run off
Boxed gutters should be fitted to sloped conservatory roofs because they remove any excess water and ensure water drainage between the extension and the main house continues.
Although the pitched roof prevents water from pooling when it rains, it is also important that the water does not run down the sides of the house, as this could cause damp issues.
Boxed gutters, therefore, collect the rainwater that falls between the walls of the conservatory and the main house, in order to prevent the water from splashing on to the walls. Over time, this could result in the brickwork becoming drenched, which could make the internal walls damp and mouldy.
For bungalows, boxed gutters often take the rainwater from the house roof as well, helping to keep the entire property in better condition for longer.
The problem of leaking gutters
Having a leaking boxed gutter is almost as bad as not having any at all, as water can come out at any point of the appliance.
If this is allowed to happen, the water can damage the plaster on the conservatory walls and it will likely need replacing and the wall repainting.
Other problems that can occur due to boxed gutter leaks include pest infestations and rodents.
It also makes those living in the house at risk of germs and viruses, as it creates a breeding ground for these. Therefore, fixing the leak could make everyone feel a lot healthier and physically fit.
However, repairing a boxed gutter is not an easy job as it may involve the removal of conservatory roof panels to work out where the leak is coming from.
If it is found, flashings can be fitted to the holes to prevent more leaks from occurring.
It is essential that this is done properly, however, as simply putting silicone, roofing felt, fibreglass, bitumen or a waterproofer on to the problem areas is unlikely to solve the issue, and certainly will not stand the test of time.
Homeowners will find that they will simply have to carry out repairs again as the leaks will reoccur, possibly worse the second time round.