As a proactive manager, always on the look out for things to improve your workplace, you will be aware of the plethora of choice when it comes to external canopies suitable for schools and public buildings. While at first glance most look to be the same when it comes to price, build and functionality, there is one feature that has recently been brought to our attention by design managers that sets us apart from many of the rest: a built in, hidden guttering system.
Why choose hidden guttering?
By hidden guttering system, we mean that the rain water collection system is part of the veranda frame itself rather than being an add-on to the outside of the veranda in the form of plastic gutters and downward pipes.
The first thing to point out is that any veranda with a hidden guttering system worth it’s buck is typically made from aluminium rather than steel. This means the inherent strength of the veranda will never be affected by contact with water which a hidden guttering system inherently involves.
The next difference to note is just how much better it makes the structure look. Surface mounted gutters and downpipes on canopies have never been pretty. Colours fade and gutters particularly tend to twist and warp. Multiple fixing brackets look unsightly. By contrast, a veranda with a hidden guttering system collects rain water inside the front canopy frame. A plastic downpipe is hidden inside the front posts and can either be connected to existing sub-terrain drainage or exits the post just above ground level. This creates a clean, sleek look which compliments any building design whether modern or contemporary.
Thinking long term
The other major difference is the fact that a hidden guttering system reduces ongoing maintenance and the risk of damage. Particularly in schools, canopies with surface mounted gutters are prone to damage from ball games and exposure to the elements whereas a hidden guttering system is shielded within its own aluminium frame. Bracket fixings on surface mounted gutter penetrate any powder coat finish leaving the structure even more vulnerable to rusting. For contractors, this means fewer snags and defects and for schools facilities managers fewer leaks, fewer repairs and a veranda that still looks new in 10, 15, or even 20 years’ time.
To find out what other advantages aluminium verandas for schools and other buildings hold over against conventional steel and wood framed verandas, speak with our project managers today.