What is a roof diverter?

A roof diverter is a device installed on a roof to redirect and control the flow of rainwater. Roof diverters serve several important functions when it comes to managing rainwater and protecting homes and buildings from potential water damage. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what exactly a roof diverter is, the different types of roof diverters, their key components, how they work, why they are used, and the benefits of installing roof diverters on your home or building. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right diverter for your needs.

What is a Roof Diverter?

A roof diverter, also sometimes called a roof drain diverter, is a device designed to intercept and redirect the flow of rainwater runoff from a roof. Roof diverters are typically installed in the gutters or downspouts and work by diverting water away from one downspout and redistributing it to other downspouts nearby. This helps prevent any one downspout system from being overwhelmed by large volumes of collected rainwater.

The main purpose of a roof diverter is to provide better control over rainwater runoff to help prevent flooding, erosion, basement seepage, and excess moisture damage around foundations. By diverting and splitting rainwater, roof diverters help reduce the risks associated with large amounts of water accumulating and flowing from one downspout.

How Do Roof Diverters Work?

Roof diverters work by intercepting rainwater flowing through gutters and downspouts and redirecting it. The diverter acts as a barrier, blocking the path of water flow and forcing it to be redistributed through branching side outlets.

Most roof diverters feature a sloped metal or plastic wedge that sits inside the gutter or downspout. This angled wedge prevents water from continuing to flow straight down through the main outlet. The backed up water is then pushed out side outlets in the diverter and channeled through additional downspouts or drained away from the building’s foundation.

This relieved pressure and redistribution of rainwater helps prevent flooding and damage. Roof diverters come in a variety of styles and configurations to properly fit and divert flow for different gutter and roofing situations.

Types of Roof Diverters

There are several different types of roof diverters designed to integrate with standard gutters and downspouts and properly divert rainwater. Common styles of roof diverters include:

Downspout Diverters

Downspout diverters are installed directly into the downspout itself. This style of diverter fits into the downspout opening and features multiple side outlets to divert and distribute water as it flows down.

Gutter Diverters

Gutter diverters sit inside the gutter and divert water before it enters the downspout. They have an angled wedge that sits in the gutter channel and obstruction water flow to the downspout inlet. Side outlets then redirect water along the gutter.

Underground Diverters

Underground diverters are installed at the bottom of the downspout to redirect water after it exits. These diverters connect to downspout extensions or underground drainage pipes to divert water away from the foundation.

Splash Block Diverters

Splash block diverters divert water as it exits the downspout and hits a splash block drain. A specialized diversion wedge is installed on the splash block to redirect some of the downspout water to an alternate drainage path.

Flex-A-Spout Diverters

Flex-a-spout diverters utilize a flexible downspout extension to manually divert and aim where water is discharged. Downspout extensions are bent and aimed away from the foundation to control drainage.

Main Components of a Roof Diverter

While roof diverters come in different configurations, most utilize similar main components in their design and functionality:

Diverter Wedge

The main body of most roof diverters is an angled wedge that sits inside the gutter or downspout. This diverter wedge obstructs normal water flow and causes the water to be pushed to side outlets. The wedge can be made from plastic, metal, or other durable materials.

Side Outlets

Side outlets are openings along the diverter that are oriented perpendicular to the main water flow path. These outlets allow water to exit the obstructed main downspout and be redirected elsewhere. The number and size of side outlets determines diversion capacity.

Mounting Brackets

Mounting brackets hold the diverter securely in place within the gutter or downspout. The diverter must be properly anchored for optimal functionality.

Splash Guards

Some diverters, especially gutter styles, incorporate short splash guards around the side outlets. These help prevent water from spraying out of the gutter as it is diverted.

Flow Controls

Flow controls are flaps or adjustable slides within the outlets that control water flow volumes. These allow water to be properly proportioned between the downspouts.

Benefits of Installing Roof Diverters

Installing roof diverters has several notable benefits for any home or building:

Prevents Roof Flooding

By diverting rainwater from one main downspout to other drainage paths, roof diverters help prevent that single downspout system from being overwhelmed and overflowing. This helps reduce pooling water and roof flooding.

Reduces Erosion and Foundation Damage

Roof diverters prevent large volumes of water from being concentrated in one area near the base of a downspout. Spreading out runoff helps reduce soil erosion and damage around foundations.

Alleviates Basement Seepage

Basement seepage and flooding due to rainwater buildup near foundations is prevented by diverting water away from problem areas. Roof diverters can significantly reduce basement water problems.

Cuts Down on Landscape Overwatering

Plantings and lawns near downspouts often get oversaturated if all rainwater flows to one area. Roof diverters allow you to spread out roof drainage and prevent landscape overwatering.

Avoids Gutter Overflow

By diverting water from overloaded gutters, roof diverters can prevent gutter overflow that can lead to fascia and soffit deterioration.

Reduces Roof and Foundation Stains

Stains on roofs and foundations from soil erosion, algae growth in standing water, mineral deposits, and other sources can be minimized by diverting rainwater to flow away from buildings.

Lowers Risk of Water Damage

Overall, properly controlling roof water runoff with diverters can significantly lower the risk of costly water damage from roof leaks, foundation flooding, landscape erosion, and flooded basements.

When Should You Install Roof Diverters?

Here are some signs that it may be time to install roof diverters on your home or building:

– Ongoing problems with water pooling on your roof or overflowing gutters
– Visible erosion, staining, or damage around foundation due to excessive roof runoff
– Basement or crawlspace seepage during rainstorms
– Downspouts frequently overflowing
– Landscaping overly saturated after rain events
– Large amounts of water flowing from one downspout compared to others
– Evidence of fascia or soffit damage from gutter overflow

Addressing these issues early on with proper roof water diversion can save you from much more extensive repairs later on. If your gutters back up with even moderate rainfalls, consider adding roof diverters to properly redistribute runoff.

How to Choose the Right Roof Diverter

With so many diverter types and options available, it’s important to select the right diverter design for your specific roof and gutter situation. Here are some tips for choosing an effective diverter:

– Carefully measure your gutter/downspout sizes and layout to find a diverter that will properly fit.
– Assess downspout flow volumes to determine optimal diversion capacity needed. Larger downspouts will require diverters with higher flow ratings.
– Consider your intended diversion areas. Choose side outlet numbers, locations, and flow controls to achieve desired water redistribution.
– Select durable, corrosion-resistant materials for long diverter life. Stick with professional-grade diverters, not basic home DIY versions.
– Buy compatible sealants, fasteners, and other accessories recommended by the manufacturer for proper installation.
– Match the diverter style to your situation. For example, flexible downspout extensions for surface diversion or underground units for dispersing water below patios or walkways.
– Consult local codes and regulations for any requirements regarding rainwater diversion on your property. Some areas have restrictions.

It’s also smart to involve a professional contractor experienced in working with roof drainage systems for recommendations on selecting the optimal roof diverter setup for your specific home’s needs. They can assess all factors and ensure proper diverter sizing and installation.

How to Install Roof Diverters

Once you’ve selected the right roof diverter model for your application, follow these basic steps for proper installation:

Turn Off Power to Any Outlets Near Work Area

This prevents risk of electrocution from contact with live wiring while working on gutters above.

Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts

Remove any debris or blockages to allow unobstructed diverter placement and water flow.

Dry Fit the Diverter

Test fitting the diverter before final fastening allows you to ensure proper alignment and fit.

Seal All Seams and Joints

Use quality caulk to seal the diverter to prevent leakage around the sides. Avoid gaps where water could bypass the diverter.

Securely Fasten Into Place

Use manufacturer recommended fasteners and spacing pattern to solidly anchor the diverter within the gutter or downspout.

Connect All Outlet Extensions

Attach flex elbows, tubes, or sealed connections to any side discharge outlets to redirect water as needed.

Adjust and Test Flow

With a garden hose, test water flow through the diverter and make any needed adjustments to outlet flow controls.

Check for Leaks

Carefully check around all sides and connections for any drips or leaks under hose testing. Reseal as needed.

When installed correctly, your roof diverter will effectively redistribute rainwater and protect your home. Check periodically that it remains securely in place without leaks or blockages.

Maintenance Tips for Roof Diverters

Like any roof drainage components, roof diverters will provide the best performance and longevity when properly maintained:

– Periodically check diverter for damage, leaks, or shifting out of alignment. Make any needed repairs promptly.
– Routinely clean diverter and side outlets of any accumulated debris like leaves or moss growth.
– Confirm diverter outlets remain aimed where you want to discharge water. Adjust flex tubing as needed.
– Make sure outlet extensions remain properly connected and sealed to diverter outlets.
– Inspect overall attachment and stability of diverter within gutter or downspout. Tighten any loose fasteners.
– Replace any worn or damaged gaskets, sealants, outlet tubes, or other diverter parts.
– Reapply protective paint/coatings to metal diverters if wearing off over time.
– Consider professional cleaning and maintenance annually before wet season.

Proper roof diverter maintenance should be part of your overall gutter and roof care routine.

Roof Diverter Accessories

There are a variety of useful accessories available to further enhance roof diverter functionality:

Diverter Protection Cages

Metal cages that fit over top of the diverter help prevent debris accumulation or damage.

Offset Downspout Adapters

Bent adapters used when downspout inlet is off center from diverter placement.

Underground Drain Pipes

Perforated pipes to connect underground diverters to distribute water into soils.

Concrete Splash Blocks

Reinforced concrete pads to absorb water flow from diverted downspouts.

Flexible Downspout Extensions

Bendable tubes to aim diverted water flow as needed.

Secondary Overflow Diverters

Additional inline diverters installed lower as backup if primary diverter overflow occurs.

Gutter Overflow Drainage Kits

Collection tubes that attach to gutters to channel overflow water if diverters are overwhelmed.

Using compatible accessories in your diverter setup can often enhance effectiveness and redundancy in severe weather events. Consult with roofing professionals on recommended accessories for your specific application.

Conclusion

Installing proper roof diverters is one of the best ways to manage rainwater drainage problems around your home or building. Roof diverters work by intercepting concentrated downspout water flow and redistributing it to other outlets. This prevents pooling water overflow issues, landscape erosion, basement flooding, and gutter deterioration.

There are many types of diverters available to properly integrate within your existing gutters and downspouts. Choosing the right diverter design matched to your roof’s drainage needs is key for optimal performance. Proper installation of roof diverters combined with periodic maintenance and cleaning will provide long-term roof water control and protection for your property. Managing rainwater runoff with quality diverters is a smart investment.