How Do You Prevent Water Pooling on Flat Roofs?
Water pooling is a major issue affecting flat roofs that have not been correctly installed.
Unfortunately, water pooling is an issue that is naturally far more common in flat roofs. In sloped roofs, water runs straight off the slope, meaning it is consistently drained. In flat roofs, however, a badly designed or installed roof can allow water to sit on the roof for extended periods of time, resulting in a ‘pool’ of standing water.
If this issue develops, and the water is allowed to sit for too long, then it can result in a major risk. Not just for the structural integrity of the roof itself, but for the entire property.
At B&S Roofing, we specialise in flat roof installations and flat roof repairs for homes and businesses across Nottingham. If you have a problem, give our team a call!
Below, our roofing experts have provided a complete guide for water pooling on flat roofs. This includes how the issue can be prevented, the best ways to tackle water pooling, and the reasons why it is so important to work with a reputable and accredited roofing specialist.
What are the risks of water pooling?
The main issues caused by water pooling (and leaving water standing for too long) include:
- Degrading the roof
- Causing extra stress to load-bearing structures, resulting in permanent damage
- Degrading roofing membranes, allowing water to seep through
- Encouraging insects
- Causing moss, mildew and algae to grow
- Enabling the build up of debris (especially leaves and twigs)
- Causing the roof to leak
- Escalating the build-up of damp and mould
- Decreases the roof’s lifespan
The best ways to prevent water pooling on a flat roof
To put it simply, the best preventative measure for water pooling is for the flat roof to be installed correctly in the first place.
A correctly installed flat roof will sit evenly, without sagging, and should include in-built features that encourage proper drainage. By enlisting a qualified, accredited and reputable roofing specialist, you can be sure that your flat roof will be expertly designed, and have a minimal risk of water pooling.
Beyond this, the most effective preventative measures to minimise the risk of water pooling include:
- Fixing any sagging areas or other low spots in your flat roof
- Adding extra drain lines to your roof, to improve its drainage system
- Regularly cleaning your roof drains and scuppers, to ensure that there is no debris or potential blockages
- Adding gutters and downspouts to your roof
- Regularly checking your roof for any warning signs of water pooling (these include standing water after rain, sagging areas of the roof, or bubbles occurring in the roof membrane)
- Implementing a regular roof inspection and maintenance schedule, with a qualified roofing specialist
The best methods to tackle water pooling on a flat roof
If you are noticing signs of water pooling on your flat roof, then there are a number of steps that you can take to help tackle the problem.
If the issue is not severe, or if this is the first time that you have noticed the problem, then the best ways to fix water pooling on a flat roof include:
- Ensuring your drains are completely free from any debris
- Adding extra drain lines to your roof
- Fixing any instances of compressed insulation
- Replacing the roofing membrane
- Installing roof crickets (these structures can divert water away from obstructions on a flat roof, such as vents, chimneys or other features of the roof that encourage standing water)
- Applying roof plaster to redirect water
- Repitching the roof (this is a more costly solution but, in extreme scenarios, this may be the best course of action)
However, if the water pooling is extensive, or you have noticed the issue occurring multiple times, then you will need to contact a roofing professional.
A specialist will be able to identify the cause of the issue, then advise you about the best course of action to take. They will also be able to complete any necessary repair work for you, ensuring that the issue does not occur again.
Working with an accredited, specialist flat roofing company
Any accredited roofing company will have the equipment and expertise necessary to minimise the risk of standing water occurring on flat roofs. Professional roofers will install flat roofs with precision and consideration, including a number of specialist features that are precisely designed to promote sufficient water drainage.
This will ensure that your flat roof has a long lifespan, and requires minimal repairs or replacements. At B&S Roofing, we specialise in flat roof installations and flat roof repairs. We have been providing expert roofing services for over 20 years, and our skilled team of flat roofing specialists are fully trained.
To find out more about any of our services, or to enlist our team to install or repair your flat roof, contact our team today!