Are roof decks always sloped for drainage?

The premise of the question revolves around the design and functionality of roof decks concerning drainage. While it may be tempting to believe that roof decks are always sloped, this is not precisely true.

Roof decks are generally designed with some consideration for drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can cause significant structural issues and lead to leaks or even failure of the roof system. However, it is not mandatory that they be sloped in every situation; there are flat roof designs specifically created for certain architectural styles, use-cases, or aesthetic preferences.

In fact, the slope of a roof deck can vary depending on factors such as the material used, local building codes, and weather conditions. Some flat roofs incorporate internal drainage systems or scuppers to manage water effectively without requiring a significant slope.

Thus, while adequate drainage measures are crucial for overall roof performance, stating that roof decks are always sloped does not reflect the diversity of roof designs and their intent in various applications.