When water stays put on your commercial roof for long periods after it rains, it’s usually a sign of something deeper going on. Ponding water might seem harmless at first, especially if it’s shallow or eventually evaporates, but when it lingers, it can start to cause damage that isn’t always easy to detect right away. Left unaddressed, it can slowly eat away at the life of your roofing system, leading to expensive repairs or worse, a full roof replacement down the line.
As summer shifts toward fall and the rainy season starts to show up in spurts, it’s one of the best times to pay attention to what’s happening on your roof. Business owners already juggle plenty, and dealing with roof damage isn’t usually on the list until water starts to show up inside. Spotting the warning signs and understanding what ponding water means gives you a better shot at stopping problems before they get serious.
Understanding Ponding Water
Ponding water is pretty much what it sounds like – flat areas of water that build up and remain on the roof for more than 48 hours after rainfall. On a commercial roof, especially ones with low slopes or no slope at all, it’s a common issue. These types of roofs are built to hold strong under harsh conditions, but even a small design flaw or one missed drain can quickly turn parts of that roof into shallow puddles.
Here’s where those puddles come from:
– Poor drainage: Clogged or blocked drains, scuppers, or downspouts keep water from flowing off the roof. Debris like leaves, broken shingles, and even bird nests can interrupt runoff.
– Structural sagging: Over time, parts of the roof deck can settle or dip due to age, water infiltration, or shifting structural supports, creating low pockets that collect water.
– Improper design or installation: If the original roofing system wasn’t installed with the right pitch or drainage paths, water won’t move the way it should after a storm.
– Damage from weather or foot traffic: Repeated walking on one spot or heavy equipment can weaken the roofing materials or compress insulation beneath the membrane, creating uneven surfaces.
One small area of pooled water might not sound like a major problem, but it signals that something’s not working the way it should. And the longer it stays, the more wear and tear that water causes. Even if it’s not leaking inside just yet, ponding puts pressure on seams, coatings, and sealants. Over time, those parts wear down.
Risks Associated With Ponding Water
Ignoring a little puddle on your commercial roof doesn’t make it go away. Unfortunately, the longer ponding water sticks around, the more damage it can quietly cause. It’s not just an eyesore. It’s your roof’s way of waving a red flag before bigger issues develop.
Here’s what might happen over time:
– Accelerated wear: Standing water adds weight to the system. Roofing materials wear down faster under constant exposure, especially around seams and flashing.
– Leaks and interior damage: Once water gets through the membrane, it can travel along support beams and walls, showing up as strange stains or drips far away from the original source.
– Mold and mildew growth: Damp conditions on the roof or within the building’s ceiling structure provide a good environment for mold to form, which doesn’t just smell bad but can also cause health problems.
– Structural strain: Extra water on the roof adds weight. Over time, that can stress your building’s support system, especially in older buildings or those not built to handle that kind of pressure.
The financial side of things isn’t fun either. What starts as a fixable drainage issue can lead to needing a roof replacement, repairing drywall, replacing insulation, or even pausing operations while repairs are made. And if you’re leasing or managing a commercial property, that can also complicate tenant agreements or insurance coverage.
Staying ahead of roofing issues like ponding water means understanding what to look for and why it matters. Once those signs are spotted, calling in a professional who knows how to handle commercial roofing is the smartest next move.
Solutions to Prevent and Address Ponding Water
So, you’ve identified ponding water on your roof. What can you do about it? Preventing this problem and addressing it when it happens can really help keep your roofing system in tip-top shape. Whether you’re managing a brand-new facility or maintaining an older one, here are some straightforward strategies to tackle the issue:
– Install proper drainage systems: Evaluate current drainage systems and upgrade them if needed. Make sure that all drains, downspouts, and gutters are clear of debris. You might need to install extra drains to support better water flow.
– Ensure adequate roof slope: A roof that’s completely flat can make water sit around longer than it should. Adjusting the roof’s pitch, if feasible, can improve drainage. This often involves working with professionals to adjust roof materials or height to create a slight slope.
– Regular roof inspections: Routine check-ups should happen a few times a year and after major weather events. These inspections can identify pooling water early and prevent it from becoming a larger issue. Licensed inspectors can provide a thorough evaluation and pinpoint areas that might need a touch-up or a complete fix.
– Re-roofing and additional drains: For recurring or severe ponding, consider a more permanent fix, like a re-roof or installing supplementary drain systems. Consulting with experts ensures that you select the best long-term option for your building’s needs.
Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Routine care and attention are your best defenses against long-term damage. The goal is to catch any signs of trouble before they become significant problems. Here’s what regular maintenance should involve:
– Seasonal checks: As weather conditions change, so do the demands on your roof. Schedule inspections at the start of each season to account for varying climates, particularly before and after heavy rain periods.
– Inspect for blockages: Simple tasks like clearing leaves, twigs, or debris from drainage points and gutters can go a long way in preventing water build-up.
– Watch for structural changes: Keep an eye out for any visual changes, such as warping or sagging areas in the roof deck, and address these immediately.
– Documentation and professional assessments: Maintain a log of inspections and any noticeable changes. Share these records with professionals during assessments, as it can provide valuable context for proactive solutions.
Why Pro Help Makes All the Difference
Ponding water won’t resolve on its own, and ignoring it only complicates matters. By making small adjustments and keeping watchful eyes on your situation, you’re already halfway to keeping your roof healthy. But you don’t have to handle everything alone. When tough roofing challenges arise, skilled professionals bring the experience needed to tackle repairs or plan roof system upgrades the right way.
Taking action at the first sign of pooling or sagging helps you avoid expensive repairs and keeps your building safe. Building owners who stick to proactive habits often see fewer problems and longer service life from their roofs. Roof care might not always be at the top of your to-do list, but handling it right ensures less stress and better performance down the road.
Struggling with ponding water on your roof can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be a drain on your resources. With All American Roof Pros, you can connect with experts who understand the ins and outs of successful roof maintenance. Explore how our commercial roofing services can help keep your building’s roof in great condition and ensure long-term protection. Don’t wait for minor issues to become major concerns—let us help safeguard your investment today.