How a canale works
A canale is a spout that runs through the parapet wall and throws water off a flat roof. The roof is sloped toward it, and the roofing is sealed into it so water can only go one way — out.
Common problems
- Clogs — leaves, twigs and cottonwood fluff back water up onto the roof and against the parapet.
- Broken seals — the joint between canale and roof cracks with heat and movement.
- Rust — older metal canales rust through.
- Wrong slope — the canale tilts back toward the roof, or the roof doesn't slope to it.
- Too short — water runs down the wall instead of landing away from it.
Fixes
- Clean it out and check the flow
- Reseal it into the roofing system
- Replace rusted or undersized canales
- Extend it and add splash protection below
- Fix the roof slope so water reaches it
See parapet and canale repair.
Roofing questions
How often should canales be cleaned?
At least once a year, more under cottonwoods.
Why are my adobe walls stained under the canales?
Water is running down the wall. A longer canale and splash block help.
Can a canale be replaced without a new roof?
Usually, by reworking the roofing around it.