I get the logic behind all those backup routes and oversized overflows, but honestly, sometimes I think the inspectors go a little overboard. My local code is strict too, but it feels like they’re just covering themselves for every possible disaster, not what’s actually likely. I’ve had a couple of inspections where they wanted an extra overflow even though my main drain was already oversized for the square footage. Kind of felt like overkill, especially since I’m in a pretty dry climate most years.
On the modular mats—yeah, they’re easy to lay down, but I actually had more issues with pooling after adding extra gravel at the edges. Maybe it was just my roof’s slope, but it almost seemed like the mats weren’t settling right on top of the extra layer. I ended up pulling some of it out and things drained better. Sometimes less is more... or maybe I just got unlucky with my setup.
Not saying ignore code, but I do wonder if there’s a point where we’re just making things more complicated than they need to be.
- Had similar issues with inspectors here—sometimes feels like they’re prepping for a 100-year flood, not the actual weather we get.
- I’ve noticed extra gravel can mess with drainage too, especially on low-slope roofs. Sometimes it just creates weird pockets.
- Did you try using a filter fabric between the gravel and mats? I found that helped keep things more level.
- Curious if anyone’s had luck getting code variances for overflow requirements in drier regions... or is it just not worth the hassle?
- I ran into the same thing with inspectors—ours wanted an overflow drain sized for a monsoon, even though we barely get any rain here.
- Tried filter fabric under the gravel, but it shifted around after a few storms. Not sure if I installed it wrong or just picked the wrong type.
- The code variance process looked like a headache, so I just went with what they wanted.
- Has anyone actually had drainage issues after going with the stricter requirements, or does it just end up being overkill?
I had to go with the bigger overflow drain too, even though we’re in a pretty dry spot. Honestly, it felt like overkill, but I haven’t had any drainage problems—if anything, it’s probably more than I’ll ever need. The filter fabric thing tripped me up as well; mine bunched up after a heavy rain and I ended up redoing it with a heavier type. Not sure if it was the right call, but at least it’s stayed put since. The code stuff is a pain, but I guess better safe than sorry... even if it seems like a bit much sometimes.
Can’t say I blame you for thinking it’s overkill—some of these code requirements really do feel like they’re written for worst-case scenarios most of us never see. Still, I’ve seen what happens when someone cuts corners on drainage and it’s not pretty (think water stains and angry tenants). The heavier filter fabric was a smart move, in my opinion. Sometimes you just have to tweak things until they work for your setup, even if the “approved” way doesn’t quite fit real-life conditions. It’s a hassle, but at least you know you won’t be dealing with callbacks down the line.
