Drainage of your terrace - How to protect your outdoor area from waterlogging

Reliable patio drainage is essential for effectively draining rainwater and preventing damage to flooring or the building structure. Whether it's a new build or a retrofit, the right solution will keep your patio dry and long-lasting. In this article, you'll learn how to optimally design patio drainage and which systems—from drainage channels to slotted gutters to box gutters—deliver the best results.

Why is drainage on the terrace important?

Effective drainage on the terrace is essential for several reasons:

1. Avoid waterlogging: Without adequate drainage, rainwater will remain on the surface of the patio. This not only leads to unsightly puddles but can also limit the use of the patio, making the surface slippery and unsafe.
   
   
2. Protecting the building structure: Standing water can penetrate adjacent parts of the building, especially terraces that border the house wall. This can lead to moisture damage such as mold growth, flaking plaster, or swelling of materials. In the long run, expensive repairs are often unavoidable.
   
   
3. Maintaining your decking: Decking materials such as tiles, wood, stone, or WPC (wood-plastic composite) are sensitive to persistent moisture. Water that cannot drain away promotes the formation of cracks due to frost damage, material fatigue, and warping of the decking. Well-thought-out drainage significantly extends the lifespan of your deck.
   
   
4. Aesthetics and maintenance: Water accumulation promotes the growth of algae, moss, and lichen, especially in shady areas. These deposits not only detract from the appearance of your patio but also make the surface slippery and difficult to clean.
   
   
5. Consider climate change: With increasing weather extremes, such as heavy rainfall, the role of effective drainage becomes increasingly important. A patio without a drainage system can quickly become flooded in such weather conditions, which can compromise the entire outdoor area.
   
   
6. Increased property value: A patio with well-planned drainage is not only more functional but also an important aspect for maintaining the value of your property. Potential buyers or tenants are increasingly paying attention to such details, as they indicate high-quality construction.

Proper patio drainage is much more than just a visual or practical detail – it protects your property, ensures safe use and increases the long-term value of your outdoor area.

Installing drainage solutions for the terrace

Retrofitting drainage solutions on your patio is usually easy and can help effectively resolve existing problems such as waterlogging. Whether through the installation of drainage channels, slotted gutters, or box gutters – with proper planning and professional implementation, long-term damage can be avoided and the functionality of your patio can be significantly improved.

Is subsequent relocation possible?

Yes, retrofitting drainage systems is feasible and, in many situations, the ideal solution if adequate drainage was not considered in the original planning. However, it is important to carefully examine the terrace's conditions. Aspects such as the slope, the flooring, and the connection points to the house play a key role. For minor adjustments, such as adding a slotted gutter, a spot-by-spot redesign is often sufficient. Larger interventions, such as installing box or drainage channels, may require more extensive work.

How much does subsequent drainage cost?

The costs for a retrofit drainage solution vary greatly and depend on several factors:

• Type of system: Slotted gutters are often more cost-effective than box gutters because they require less material and labor.
  
  
• Terrace size: The larger the terrace, the more material and labor are required, which increases the costs.
  
  
• Soil conditions: If the subsoil needs to be prepared or modified for the installation of drainage systems, the costs increase accordingly.
  
  
• Craftsmen's costs: Depending on the region and the amount of work involved, hiring professionals costs between 50 and 100 euros per hour.

On average, the total cost of a retrofit drainage solution can range from €500 to €2,500 . Smaller projects, such as the installation of individual slotted gutters, are usually less expensive, while comprehensive measures involving drainage channels or box gutters can be more expensive.

When is the right time?

The best time to retrofit a drainage system is either in spring or summer, when the weather is stable and the patio is dry. This allows for quick work, allowing the new decking or drainage channels to be used without delay.

By professionally retrofitting your patio drainage system, you are not only investing in the safety and functionality of your outdoor area, but also in the long-term value of your property.

Drainage channels: The proven solution

Drainage channels are ideal for reliably draining large amounts of water. They are made of robust materials such as concrete or plastic and are usually equipped with a grid cover.
Advantages:

• Efficient water drainage: Perfect for larger terraces or areas prone to heavy rainfall.
  
  
• Durability: High-quality drainage channels are extremely durable.
  
  
• Flexibility: Suitable for almost any type of terrace.

Slotted gutters: subtle elegance

For a modern and minimalist look, slotted gutters are the perfect choice. Their slim design blends discreetly into the patio's design.
Advantages:

• Aesthetic: Slotted gutters are almost invisible and do not disturb the appearance.
  
  
• Space-saving: Ideal for patios with limited space.
  
  
• Easy care: The narrow openings make cleaning uncomplicated.

Box gutters: The robust all-round solution

Box gutters impress with their high load-bearing capacity and are particularly suitable for patios subject to heavy use. They feature a larger cross-section that can absorb large amounts of water and are often equipped with a removable grating.
Advantages:

• High capacity: Perfect for large or high-traffic patios.
  
  
• Robustness: Box gutters can withstand even high loads.
  
  
• Easy maintenance: Thanks to the removable grate, they are easy to clean.

How do I choose the right drainage system?

Choosing the right drainage system depends on several factors:

• Terrace size: For large areas, box or drainage channels are recommended as they can absorb larger amounts of water.
  
  
• Visual requirements: Slotted gutters are the right choice for an unobtrusive design.
  
  
• Load: For terraces that are subject to heavy use, box gutters offer maximum stability.

Conclusion

Whether drainage channels, slotted channels, or box gutters – each system has its strengths and is suitable for different requirements. It's important that your patio is optimally drained to prevent damage and waterlogging. Retrofitting is also easily possible if no existing solution exists.

Discover high-quality drainage systems for your patio in our online shop. Our products combine functionality with durability and design – for an outdoor space that shines even in the rain!