Did you know that the average lifespan of a flat roof is 25 years?
With time, flat roofs may become less resilient to damage from external elements. For many flat roofs, ponding water is one of the leading causes of damage.
Roof ponding is the accumulation of rainwater that has nowhere to go and starts to pool. If left alone, this can lead to significant damage to your home.
Fortunately, there are many ways to mitigate the water collecting on your flat roof. Read on to learn how to safeguard your roof against harmful damage.
Consult a Roofing Professional
A roofing professional has the experience and knowledge to identify the cause of the ponding water and advise the best solution for the roofing problem. Consult right away, as pooling water can cause major damage to the roof that requires expensive and time-consuming repairs.
Also, with the help of a roof cleaning service, they inspect the roof and address any damage before it worsens. The cleaning service can detect algae, moss, and lichen growth and treat the roof surface so that it can shed water. They can seal any penetrations in the roof, ensuring the waterproofing of the roof against water damage.
Check the Gutter System
There must be an adequate and consistent slope to allow rainwater to flow from the roof. This requires that the fascia, downspouts, and gutters are all working well as intended.
If it has been a while since the gutters were cleaned, this should be a top priority. Debris and clogs can obstruct the water flow and lead to standing water. Be sure that the roofing surface area around your gutter system is clear of obstacles, such as shrubs and trees, which can impede water flow.
Keeping your gutters clean and in good working order can make the difference between a dry roof and a costly flat roofing repair.
Add Additional Layers of Roofing Material
If you have pooling water on a flat roof, the most effective solution is to add additional layers of roofing material. This will help to make the roof more sloped and reduce the amount of water that will pool.
It also helps to strengthen the roofing material against moisture-related damage. Adding an extra layer of roofing material will provide more protection against water penetration. It can help reduce the amount of heat kept by the roof, which will help prevent water condensation.
Establish a Preventative Maintenance Plan
Damaged flat roofs have the potential to create stagnant pools of water that can damage the underlying structure and serve as breeding grounds for mold. To avoid this issue, it’s essential to establish a preventative maintenance plan for your flat roof.
This can involve cleaning the roof’s surface and installing drains to divert water from pooling areas. Regular inspections of the roof should also be carried out. It can address any issues or signs of wear and tear and remain in good condition.
Follow These Tips About Ponding Water on Your Flat Roof
Ponding water on a flat roof is a nuisance that you must address. Utilizing several techniques, such as consulting a roofing professional, checking the gutter system, adding additional layers of roofing materials, and establishing a preventative maintenance plan, can reduce and eliminate water ponding on your roof.
With all the options that come with ponding water on a flat roof, you’re sure to find the best course of action. If you need assistance to determine the best course of action for ponding water, contact a professional roofer today.
