Internal drains, scuppers, and gutters serve different roof layouts. The useful question is whether the system removes water from this roof and provides a suitable overflow path, rather than which drain type is universally best.

What to check first

  • Identify the direction of the roof slope.
  • Trace where water goes after leaving the roof.
  • Check the primary and overflow routes separately.

Separate a leak from a drainage problem

  1. Trace the water route

    Follow water from the roof surface through the inlet and toward the discharge point. Inspect normal drainage and any separate overflow provision.

  2. Check the waterproof connection

    A sound pipe does not prove the membrane-to-drain connection is sound. Look for loose components, separation, damaged flashing, or patch buildup around the inlet.

  3. Preserve the opening

    A compatible local repair must not reduce the effective outlet or cover its strainer. Persistent ponding, backup, or changes to drain location and size need building-specific professional assessment.

Watch the field examples

These archive demonstrations show individual projects. Use the current guidance above and Bergstrom’s published instructions if an older video shows a different product or method. Torch work shown in installation videos is professional work.

Watch Which Drainage System Fits Your Flat Roof? · example 1Opens on YouTube ↗Watch Which Drainage System Fits Your Flat Roof? · example 2Opens on YouTube ↗Watch Which Drainage System Fits Your Flat Roof? · example 3Opens on YouTube ↗

Product reference: Bergstrom Industries’ published knowledge catalog. Follow the latest product label and safety information. Historical project examples are educational and are not a specification for every roof.