Galvanized gutter systems were still popular during the Soviet era. Over time, they were replaced by materials that are more resistant to external influences. But thanks to improvements in the composition of the material, it was possible to significantly increase the technical parameters, which allowed the gutters to return to operation of the current structures.
Installation of gutters
As part of galvanized systems, there are several main elements assembled into a single structure:
- Gutters that provide rain /melt water flow at a specified angle.
- Funnels that receive water from the gutters and ensure it is diverted.
- Drain pipes, through which water from the funnels flows down and is discharged from the foundation into the storm drain or the general sewage system.
The design is supplemented with fasteners necessary for assembling the general system - clamps, elbows, plugs, couplings. They ensure the integrity of the drain, monitor its strength and tightness, and provide water drainage in the desired direction. These details allow you to fix the gutter on any surface - reinforced concrete, wood, brick, as well as provide it with any length and configuration, taking into account the peculiarities of the architectural structure of the building. This allows you to direct the gutter along the desired path, bend around ledges and corners before going into the stormwater.
Pros and cons of galvanized gutter systems
The popularity of galvanized steel gutters is due to the numerous advantages of the material and the finished system:
- Light weight of the elements, which makes it easy to transport parts by personal transport, do without any assistance during installation.
- UV immunity. Unlike pipes coated with a polymer dye, the zinc layer does not fade in the sun and does not change its color. An exception is made for components coated with colored dyes prior to sale.
- Moisture resistance. Thanks to zinc protection, thin steel remains corrosion resistant for 15 years or more.
- Resistance to aggressive impurities in water. Thanks to galvanizing, steel receives protection from the harmful effects of alkalis, acids, ammonia.
- Maintaining operating parameters over a wide temperature range. Galvanized steel does not tend to expand, deform under the influence of temperature changes in the off-season. This keeps the system tight.
- Long service life. Competent installation allows you to use the gutter for up to 20 years or more.
- Affordable cost for gutter elements.
The disadvantages of using galvanized steel for drainage systems include its low sound insulation. The sound of rain and hail will be felt at home.
Installation of galvanized gutters is carried out taking into account the specific installation conditions. The choice of option is made based on the state of the house, the characteristics of the landscape and the climate in the region. The most common option is to attach pipes to the edge of the roof slope. For this purpose, brackets are used that are fixed to the building before the roof is laid.
