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Drainage is the biggest challenge with flat commercial roofing because it has little to no slope. The roof instead relies on a drain system to flush rainwater. However, water sometimes still accumulates, which can put the roof at risk for damage. That's why it’s important to act quickly when you spot ponding water. Here is a guide to help you preserve your roof.

Why Ponding Is Bad

Water erodes roofing membranes and adhesives when it sits long enough. Once the materials dissolve, the water will then leak through the roof, potentially ruining your business inventory, office materials, and building structure, leading to hefty losses. Over time, an area that ponds can also begin to sag and be at risk of collapsing. 

Ponding leads to unsightly moss and algae growth on the commercial roofing as well. These areas will become a breeding ground for insects and mold growth, posing health hazards. 

How to Spot Ponding & Low Spots

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Survey your roof after a storm. Small ponds will likely have formed in depressions around the roof. 

But you don’t have to wait for rain since sunken areas will collect a lot of dirt and debris after the water has evaporated. If they’ve been there a while, you may also detect a musky, unpleasant smell. 

In more advanced cases, you may see clear depressions. Inside the building, if you find a sagging, water-stained ceiling, immediate roof repairs are needed.

Solutions

If you’re dealing with ponding for the first time, try clearing debris from the drains and gutters. Then pour water down the drain system to ensure it flushes out without issues. 

If depressions have already formed, commercial roofing professionals will need to reslope the surface. By adding more membrane material, they can drive the water toward drains and gutters, eliminating dips along the way. This is also a good time to consider another drain. Water may pond during heavy rains because it can’t drain fast enough, and a second drain will help resolve that issue.

 

If ponding water is a concern, the trusted team at Tory’s Roofing & Waterproofing Inc. in Pearl City, HI, is here to assist. Since 1972, they’ve provided Oahu business owners with commercial roofing maintenance, repairs, waterproofing, and installation. Call (808) 456-5990 to schedule a consultation, and learn more about the company's services online.

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