CSLB C-39 Roofing ContractorLow-Slope RoofingMedium

During a roof drainage inspection, a technician checks the strainer/dome on a primary roof drain. Per the California Plumbing Code, at minimum how many inches must the strainer extend above the roof surface immediately surrounding the drain?

  1. A4 inches
  2. B8 inches
  3. C2 inches
  4. D6 inches
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. 4 inches

The California Plumbing Code requires roof drain strainers to extend a minimum of 4 inches above the surface of the roof immediately adjacent to the strainer, ensuring debris does not block water flow into the drain.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. 8 inches is well above the required minimum and not the code standard.
  • C. 2 inches is below the code-required minimum height.
  • D. 6 inches exceeds the code minimum requirement.

Roof Drain Strainer Height

The minimum height (4 inches) that a roof drain strainer dome must extend above the adjacent roof surface per the California Plumbing Code, to prevent debris blockage.

  • CPC requires minimum 4-inch strainer height
  • Prevents leaves/debris from clogging the drain
  • Applies to primary roof drains on low-slope roofs

Memory trick: Four inches high keeps the leaves from the sky.

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