Why Is There Ponding Water on My Flat Roof? Best Roofing Services 2024

Flat roofs not only add a modern touch to a commercial building but are also gaining popularity for residential projects. However, flat roofs are more exposed to Ponding water-related issues than pitched ones and one such problem is ‘carrying water’. Carrying water is when some areas of the roof get large amounts of water on them for a long time. While it looks benign, this pool can develop into big issues when neglected in the future and cause bad damage to the roof and the building.

If you have such kind of roof, it is imperative for you to know how to deal with Carrying water in order to preserve your roof. Let us tell you more about it.

What is Ponding Water?

Ponding water is a term used when water stays on a flat roof for 24 to 48 hours. As defined by the National Roofers and Contractors Association (NRCA), a wearing course is a term coined to describe water ingressed into the highest dome or low flow regions of the roof surface horizontally. Therefore it is important to avoid and correct ponding as soon as possible.

Why Ponding is a Problem for Flat Roofs 

Even minor puddles enhances the unroof efficiency and performance of a flat roof. Here are some reasons why ponding is dangerous. 

Weighed Stress: The water that rests on the roofs adds pressure into the entire structure, and it could also impact the stress the roof is put on when the load is heavier than the load the roof supports if the water is dependent on the roofs weight. 

Ponding Effect: Water on roofing materials for long periods can spoil the roofing materials thus affecting the life of the roof and resulting in strict and high expenses during repairs. 

Fungi Development: Algae, moss, and other vegetation growths can occur in areas of ponding if such is done at the roof, which can either stain or ruin the roofing surface. 

Causes Opportunistic Pests: Many animals such as birds, insects, etc. may hover around the rooftops where there is water which can add on to more nuisance or damages. 

Cause of Freeze/Thaw Cycle: In winters, water may be exposed and then transition to ice causing expansion thus leading to damages on the roofing materials. Also, the constant cycle of freeze and thaw can reduce surface components harboring that cycle which can be found on the modified bitumen materials. 

These types of problems will not only diminish the lifespan of the roof, but also create a risk for leakages, which can lead to damage of other parts of your premises.

Flat Roofs Ponding: See The Reasons

There are a number of causes for ponding on a flat roof, such as: 

Improper Roof Construction: It is a necessity in flat roof construction to have a slight slope in order to facilitate drainage. In the event that a roof was constructed with no pitch or sloped away from the drainage system, pooling in low areas will take place.

Ineffective Drainage Systems: Roofs have drainage that is slow or clogged or have low points so water can’t escape the roof easily. Siphonic drains are sometimes needed for larger roofs but residential roofs have problems at the intersections of the flat and sloped areas.

Compressed insulation: Insulation may become compressed as a result of foot traffic or items being placed on it and form a low point. Such areas may in the long run develop into perennial low points that eventually collect water and worsen the ponding problems.

Settling or Structural Change: All building structures settle over time due to natural forces and this shifting also tends to cover the slope of the roof thereby creating depressions where water is likely to run off and settle.

Features of Roofs that may be Cause Basset Hounds: These are vents, skylights, HVAC units and other features that may have been poorly installed and may result in roofing sink points. Over a period they may weather and these areas would capture the water.

HVAC or Other Equipment Leaks: At times HVAC units or even other appliances located on the roofs may also add to ponding due to condensation or leakage on these units or appliances. In such instances, it is critical for an HVAC professional to evaluate and repair the equipment where necessary.

How to Fix Ponding on a Flat Roof:

Standing water on a flat roof requires quick action as it poses a threat to the health of the roof in the long term. Professional roofers can help you in determining the most effective roof solutions, depending on the roof’s condition and the underlying issues. A few of the standard remedy procedures are listed below:

Roof Inspection: Step one is a detailed survey and analysis of the reasons behind the existence of ponding. In instances where there is pre-existing damage to the structures cut, it would be wise to contact an engineer in order to evaluate the going repairs. 

Structural Repairs: In the event that ponding has already caused destruction to the building, such structural destruction should be dealt with as the first order of repairs. 

Slope Adjustments: When undesired slope of the roof is found to be the cause of the ponding, then the roofing expert may advise on re sloping the roof or even redoing some sections of the roof. While this may sound expensive, it is quite a practical approach for ensuring long term strength and durability. 

Drainage System Improvements: Clogged drainage systems may only require maintenance using standard cleaning methods. On the other hand, poorly designed drains may require refinements such incorporating more drainage or even specialist drainage. In some areas that experience snow, the use of an electric heating cable on the drains, serves to eliminate any chances of ice build up in the drains.

POTHOLE MITIGATION: For smaller low spots, roofers can use crickets or Puddle Fillers for the small- to medium-size cuts, indentations, depressions, or other areas that require leveling off in order to disperse water from the low spots.

Deteriorated Focused Areas: Over an extended period of time, any materials such as insulation or cap sheets that are exposed to water should be removed and new ones introduced for complete restoration of the roofing system.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Assistance for Ponding Diseases:

Some minor roof maintenance can be done by yourself; however, when it comes to considerable ponding issues, it is advisable to seek the assistance of professionals. General contractors with roof installations may have the knowledge of diagnosing the areas where ponding occurs, its occurrence, and any solutions that can be implemented for future occurrences.

This can lead to roof leaks, roof system’s aging and failure at early times, as well as, catastrophic expense repairs. Pete’s Builders Commercial Roofing specializes in flat roofing systems to ensure your roofing systems are functioning optimally. If your concern is the ponding of your flat roof, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Please don’t put off taking care of small concerns. Even the smallest issues can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Call Petes Builders Commercial Roofing so that you get assisted with the best roof to protect you.