As Kerala embraces sustainable living and smart construction, rainwater harvesting is no longer an afterthought—it’s an essential. And contrary to popular belief, you can harvest rainwater effectively from shingled roofs, provided you know how to design for it.
At Scaffs India, we combine cutting-edge roofing shingles with smart water management principles to make eco-friendly roofing both beautiful and functional.
🌧️ Why Rainwater Harvesting from Shingled Roofs Matters in Kerala
With its heavy monsoons and rising water demand, Kerala is perfectly positioned to benefit from rooftop water harvesting systems. But one concern persists:
“Can rainwater collected from asphalt or designer shingles be clean and safe?”
The answer: Yes—with proper design. Using high-quality, certified roofing materials—like those from Scaffs India’s designer shingles range—plus smart hacks to filter, divert, and channel runoff, you can safely store rainwater for landscaping, washing, or even potable use with advanced treatment.
✅ Choosing the Right Shingles for Rainwater Harvesting
Not all shingles are equal when it comes to water quality. Here’s what to look for:
✔️ Low-Leach Materials
Modern architectural shingles and solar-integrated roof tiles (like Tejas Borja’s Solar Tiles) are designed to minimise leaching of harmful substances into water.
✔️ Certified and Coated
Look for shingles that are eco-certified or come with protective coatings that resist algae, mould, and asphalt bleed.
Explore:
🔗 Architectural Roofing Shingles in Kerala
💡 Design Hacks for Maximum Rainwater Efficiency
1. Use a First Flush Diverter
Install a device that diverts the initial 5–10 minutes of rainfall—which may carry dust, debris, and shingle residue. This improves water quality and extends filter life.
2. Install Leaf Screens & Mesh Filters
At gutter inlets, use UV-stable mesh screens to block leaves, insects, and granules from shingles. This is especially useful during Kerala’s post-monsoon shedding season.
3. Maintain Adequate Roof Slope
Ensure your shingle roof is pitched between 20–60 degrees for efficient runoff, preventing water pooling and contamination.
👉 Scaffs India’s shingles are ideal for sloped roofing, especially our Traditional 3-Tab Shingles.
4. Use Non-Toxic Roof Cleaning Agents
Periodic maintenance helps, but avoid harsh chemicals. Opt for biodegradable cleaners that don’t leave toxic residues that wash into tanks.
5. Use PVC or SS Gutters & Downpipes
Choose materials that don’t react with shingle runoff, are UV-resistant, and match the aesthetic of your roof design.
🏠 Cottage Designs That Harvest Smart
Planning a cottage or retreat? Our mudroom cottages and A-frame wooden structures are already optimised for water channeling:
High pitch = high runoff efficiency
Extended eaves prevent splashback
Rainwater-ready gutter installations
Explore:
🔗 A-Frame Cottage in Kerala
🔗 Wooden Cottages
🔄 Integrate with Circular Roofing Principles
Pairing rainwater harvesting with circular roofing—like recycled or bio-based shingles—takes sustainability a step further. Want to go fully green? Start with:
⚙️ Pro Tip: Gutter Flow Calculators
Rain in Kerala isn’t light. Make sure your downpipes and tank inlets are sized using local rainfall data. Use gutter flow calculators or consult with Scaffs India’s installation team for proper dimensioning.
Final Thought: Make Every Drop Count
Rainwater harvesting with shingled roofs isn’t just possible—it’s smart. With the right materials, thoughtful design, and reliable installation, you can make your roof work harder and greener for years to come.
💬 Need Help Planning Your Harvest-Ready Roof?
Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading an existing one, Scaffs India offers premium shingles and expert advice for sustainable, rain-smart roofing.
👉 Talk to our team about integrating rainwater harvesting into your next roofing project.
At Scaffs India, we provide comprehensive roof inspection and repair services. Our team will assess the damage and ensure your roof is in top condition. Learn more about our roof repair services.
Scaffs India is your go-to expert for premium roofing shingles in Kerala—combining aesthetics, performance, and protection for every project.We invite you to explore some of the beautiful roofing choices.For more information regarding how IKO Roofing shingles can be used for your roofing project, visit our
contact page link here and get in touch. or call +91 96455 55534.