Investing in commercial property is a large financial commitment, which means routine maintenance is vital to protect it. Since these buildings often have flat roofs, ponding water may sit on top after heavy rain or snowfall and cause structural damage. To prevent potential issues, use the guide below to learn how why this happens.

A Guide to Ponding Water on Commercial Property

What Are the Potential Issues?

Flat roofs are not designed to hold heavy-weight water. If there is a considerable amount of water on the roof that doesn’t evaporate within 48 hours, large puddles will form. 

This can cause dirt buildup as well as moss, algae, and mold growth. Insects will also be attracted to the standing water and an infestation might form. When left for a long period of time, the roof made sag, corrode, and damage the interior of the building as well. For all these reasons, it's crucial to get preventative maintenance for your roof regularly to ensure the safety of the building and the employees that work there. 

How Can I Prevent Ponding Water?

Luckily, roofing contractors can suggest numerous solutions to this problem after a roof inspection. By hiring professionals to consistently clean the drains, rain gutters, and downspouts on your roof, you can easily avoid water ponding. Removing debris such as leaves, sticks, and branches will help the water run smoothly from the roof.

In some areas with high precipitation, the flat roof may not have enough drains for the amount of water pooling on the surface. Installing additional drains will help to redirect the water and get it off your commercial property. Another option is to widen the drains so that more water can flow through them.

If you need to get your roof inspected, contact General Roofing today. For 40 years, these roofing contractors have served commercial property owners in Anchorage, AK. They offer a multitude of services, from fixing small holes to a full roof replacement. Call them at (907) 561-1460 or visit their website to learn more about their services.