PLUMBING & DRAINAGE
GO WITH THE FLO.. H
istorically, rainwater systems were designed with a single goal in mind: remove water from the building quickly and efficiently. While that’s still essential, it’s only one part of the picture today. Modern developments must contend with localised flooding, sewer overflows, and environmental regulations that demand a reduction in stormwater runoff.
This is where Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) come into play. These strategies aim to mimic natural water cycles, managing rainfall at the source rather than simply funneling it into already overstretched sewer networks. Gutters and downpipes are now the first step in a broader, more sophisticated water management process
Jack Clutterbuck, head of category for water & heating at FloPlast, part of Wienerberger, says: “Increasingly, developers are incorporating green infrastructure into their building designs. Green roofs, for example, absorb rainwater, reducing runoff, but don’t eliminate it entirely. Which is where a well-designed gutter and downpipe system becomes essential. Rainwater captured by green roofs needs to be managed intelligently. Innovative systems can be tailored to work in tandem with these installations, not only collecting residual runoff but also helping direct it to further sustainable applications, such as rainwater harvesting tanks or infiltration trenches.
“These systems are now seen as vital contributors to biodiversity and placemaking.
With climate change bringing more intense rainfall and rapid urbanisation increasing the volume of impermeable surfaces, drainage needs to change.
In urban areas especially, integrating water- sensitive design contributes not just to resilience, but to wellbeing. Greener, more absorbent environments make cities more liveable, reduce heat, and create spaces where people and nature can thrive side by side. The gutter, in this context, is playing a bigger role than ever imagined.”
Upstream design Another key trend is the use of permeable paving in urban and suburban developments. Unlike traditional hardstanding, these surfaces allow water to soak through into the ground below, helping to recharge aquifers and reduce surface water runoff. “Here, rainwater systems play a crucial upstream role,” says Clutterbuck. “Drainage solutions can be configured to direct excess roof runoff away from traditional sewers and toward permeable zones, ensuring that water is managed holistically across a site. This kind of integration is vital as regulations like Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act (expected to be enacted soon in England) push SuDS from best practice to a legal requirement. “We’re also seeing renewed interest in rainwater harvesting, both for commercial developments and individual homes. With rising water bills and greater awareness of resource scarcity, more homeowners and businesses are looking to capture and reuse rainwater for non-potable uses like toilet flushing, irrigation, or washing machines.
“Again, gutters and downpipes are key enablers. A properly configured system, using debris filters and first-flush diverters, ensures that the water reaching storage tanks is of usable quality. This is a vital step towards circular water management, and an area where merchants can offer real added value to their customers.”
The shift from traditional drainage to proactive water management calls for a broader perspective on how existing products are applied. Understanding how rainwater systems perform in SuDS and how they interact with elements like green infrastructure or rainwater harvesting setups is becoming increasingly valuable.
“As planning authorities push for more sustainable solutions and developers seek to meet stricter environmental standards, demand for compatible systems will grow,” says Clutterbuck.
“Merchants who can confidently guide customers on product performance, compliance, and integration will stand out. Installers are also navigating this shift, so the ability to support them with clear advice, is increasingly important.” BMJ
SMART DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS SUPPORT URBAN RENEWAL
As part of the redevelopment of London’s Ebury Bridge Estate, a comprehensive drainage system was implemented to meet the demands of a modern, high-traffic residential environment. Tailored drainage solutions were used based on the specific needs of each area, ensuring effective water management, surface durability, and integration with the design. • Façade Perimeters: MultiV+ channels with stainless steel gratings (load class C250) provide discreet, corrosion-resistant drainage solutions ideal for pedestrian zones with occasional light vehicle access.
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• Building Entrances: Civil SM200 channels equipped with ductile iron gratings (load class D400) handle heavier traffic, offering reinforced strength for vehicles. • Access Roads: MultiV+ channels with ductile iron gratings (load class D400) ensure reliable drainage performance under regular vehicular loads. • Playground Area: MultiV+ channels, adapted on-site to accommodate curved layouts and height constraints, support efficient drainage while preserving the area’s design integrity. Ductile iron gratings (load class
D400) ensure durability and safety. These
drainage systems contribute to long-term infrastructure
performance, supporting the estate’s goals of sustainability, resilience, and enhanced public space usability.
www.ulmaarchitectural.com/
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net June 2025
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