Red LBP Blog Series – Concealed Gutters – The Down Low

In our ongoing series of articles spotlighting common building material issues, we now turn our attention to concealed or "hidden" gutter systems, where aesthetics meet potential pitfalls. We will explore the various types of concealed gutters, the potential problems they present, the role of building inspectors in identifying water leaks, and the importance of using specialised tools like thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and drones during inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of your property.

Types of Concealed Gutters

Concealed gutter systems, appreciated for their unobtrusive appearance, come in different types:

1.??? Box Gutters: Often found in commercial buildings and modern residential designs, these gutters are discreetly integrated within the roof structure.

2.??? Internal Gutters: Concealed within the eaves, internal gutters provide a sleek and clean look, commonly chosen for residential properties.

3.??? Parapet Gutters: Ideal for flat-roofed structures, parapet gutters are positioned above the parapet wall, cleverly hiding the gutter system.

Hidden Gutter Challenges

Concealed gutter systems, while aesthetically pleasing, aren't without their challenges:

1.??? Water Ingress Risks: Concealed gutters can develop leaks due to wear and tear, blockages, or poor installation, posing a significant risk of water ingress. This can lead to structural damage, such as timber rot and weakened foundations.

2.??? Debris Accumulation: Concealed gutters can collect leaves, debris, and even bird nests, leading to blockages and improper drainage.

3.??? Installation Quality: Poor workmanship during installation, such as inadequate falls, improper sealing, or insufficient brackets, can contribute to water leaks.

The Building Inspector's Role

Building inspectors play a crucial role in identifying potential water leaks via concealed gutter systems. These hidden gutters are considered "high risk" for water ingress, emphasizing the need for thorough inspections. Our inspectors are equipped with specialised tools like thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and even drones to provide a comprehensive assessment of the gutter system's condition.

Inspecting with Specialised Tools

1.??? Thermal Imaging Cameras: These tools can detect temperature variations that may indicate moisture or leaks. If there are issues with the gutter system, thermal imaging can provide an early warning.

2.??? Moisture Meters: These non invasive devices can measure the moisture content of materials. Inspectors can use moisture meters to identify water ingress or elevated moisture levels within concealed gutters.

3.??? Drones: Drones equipped with cameras can capture images of hard-to-reach areas, providing a bird's-eye view of the gutter system. This allows our inspectors to assess the condition without invasive procedures.

Choose an Experienced Inspector

While these tools are essential for an effective inspection, it's equally important to engage an experienced building inspector. Non-invasive inspections require expertise to correctly interpret the data collected and identify potential issues.

Red LBP Inspectors are constantly upskilling on the use and interpretation of these tools. It is all well and good to have them, but useless to the home buyer if they do not know how to correctly use them!

The NZ Building Code's E2 Section: Water Ingress

The E2 section of the New Zealand Building Code focuses on preventing water ingress to protect the building envelope and systems. Hidden gutters, being prone to water ingress risks, are a critical component to be inspected and maintained in compliance with these regulations.

Consequences of Neglect

Neglecting concealed gutter issues can lead to severe consequences, including structural damage, timber rot, weakened foundations, mould growth, and compromised building integrity. Ensuring that your concealed gutter system is well-maintained and inspected regularly can prevent these issues and maintain the quality and safety of your property.

Don't underestimate the risks; address concealed gutter issues promptly to safeguard your property's long-term safety and quality.