How To Prevent Ponding Water on Flat Roofs

Ponding water on flat roofs is one of the most common issues many property owners deal with. If not addressed promptly, it can lead to severe structural problems, decrease the lifespan of the roof and even cause leaks that damage the interiors of buildings. In this blog post, the trusted roof storm damage repair experts at Ritco Group, Inc. share tips to prevent water from pooling on your flat roof.

All About the Problem of Ponding Water

Ponding water refers to water accumulating on the roof surface for more than 48 hours after rainfall. Flat roofs are particularly susceptible to this problem due to having little to no sloping. Gravity alone might not be enough to clear the water and may necessitate renovations for proper disposal. The National Roofing Contractors Association highlights the importance of addressing any ponding water issues promptly, as prolonged water accumulation can compromise the structural integrity of the building.

Causes of Ponding Water

Several factors contribute to the problem of ponding water. These include poor roof design, the age of the building and foundation settling, crushed insulation and inadequate drainage systems. A flawed design or a roof that does not account for proper water flow can direct water to low spots rather than toward drainage outlets. Similarly, buildings might experience foundation issues and experience roof levelness and poor water distribution, which renovation roofing services can solve. Lastly, crushed insulation under the roofing material can create uneven surfaces, further complicating water drainage.

Solutions for Ponding Water

To mitigate the risks associated with ponding water, consider the following:

Ensure Proper Roof Design. Consulting with experienced roofing professionals who understand the intricacies of flat roof designs is crucial. A well-thought-out design with slopes and drainage systems will direct water away from the roof surface efficiently.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection. Keeping drainage systems clear of debris is essential. Regular inspections and maintenance work can prevent clogs that lead to water backing up on the roof. Property owners should periodically check for and remove leaves, sticks and other debris that might block drains.
Use of Tapered Insulation. Implementing tapered insulation on residential and commercial roofing can introduce a slight slope to the roof enough to draw water into your gutters and downspouts. This solution is particularly effective for roofs with a history of ponding water and effectively works in redistributing the water more evenly across the roof’s surface.
Installing Additional Drains. Sometimes, the existing drainage system may not be sufficient to handle the volume of water. In such cases, adding more drains or repositioning them can be a viable solution. It’s also worth considering the installation of crickets—small, elevated sections that redirect water away from critical areas like air conditioning units or vents.
Re-Pitching the Roof. In situations where the current pitch of the roof is inadequate, re-pitching the entire roof or affected regions might be necessary. Though this can be costly, it’s a long-term solution that addresses the root cause of ponding water.
Utilize Modern Roofing Materials. Advancements in roofing materials, such as high-quality membranes designed to resist water accumulation, offer an additional layer of protection against ponding water. Investing in these durable materials during roof replacement or repair can significantly reduce the risk of water-related damage.

You can always count on Ritco Group, Inc. for assistance when it comes to dealing with and preventing the problem of ponding water on flat roofing systems. For your roof repair or maintenance needs, call us at (931) 381-0175, or fill out this contact form to get an estimate. We serve residents in and around Brentwood and Murfreesboro, TN.

Richard Thompson