Causes of Water Pooling on a Flat Roof
Insufficient Roof Slope
One of the primary reasons water pools on a flat roof is an inadequate slope. Even though flat roofs appear level, they require a slight pitch to direct water toward drains. Over time, older buildings may settle unevenly, which can cause the roof to sag in certain areas. When this happens, water collects instead of draining away.
Solution: To fix this without major structural changes, we recommend installing custom tapered insulation. This involves building up the insulation thickness to create the necessary slope. By starting at the drain and tapering outward, we can guide the water to flow properly and prevent future pooling.
Settling Around Drains
In older buildings, cast iron drains were commonly used and well-secured. However, over time, the surrounding roof materials may settle, leaving the drain higher than the surrounding roof surface. This creates low spots where water can accumulate.
Our Fix: We can fill in these low spots before installing tapered insulation. This ensures the roof has a uniform surface and directs water toward the drain, eliminating potential problem areas.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Water Pooling
1. Regular Drain Cleaning
Keeping drains clear of debris is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent water pooling on a flat roof. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can clog drains, slowing or completely blocking water flow.
- Tip: Schedule regular inspections, especially after storms. A quick check every few months can save you from costly water damage.
2. Monitor Drain Types
There are two main types of drains for flat roofs: interior and exterior.
- Interior Drains: These run through the building’s interior, making them less likely to freeze in cold climates.
- Exterior Drains: These direct water outside through gutters or scuppers. However, they can freeze in low temperatures, leading to backup issues.
3. Prevent Freezing with Heat Tape
For buildings with exterior drains, freezing is a significant concern during winter. When water backs up and freezes, it can create ice dams, increasing the risk of leaks or even roof collapse.
Our Solution: We can install heat tape, a specialized cord that stays warm and prevents freezing. This tape is placed inside the drain pipe and keeps water flowing freely throughout the winter.
4. Install Overflow Scuppers
Overflow scuppers act as a backup system for your drains. If the primary drain gets clogged and water starts to pool, the overflow scupper provides an alternate path for water to exit the roof.
- How It Works: We cut a hole into the wall and install a leaderhead box. If water rises above a certain level, it flows out through the scupper, signaling that maintenance is needed.
Benefits of Professional Flat Roof Maintenance
Proper maintenance and timely solutions can significantly extend the life of your flat roof. By addressing water pooling issues early, we help you avoid costly repairs and potential structural damage. Here’s what you gain by working with us:
- Customized Solutions: Every roof is different, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
- Cost-Effective Repairs: We focus on minimizing disruptions and costs by using advanced techniques like tapered insulation.
- Long-Term Protection: Our solutions aren’t just quick fixes—they’re designed to last, giving you peace of mind.
In Summary
Water pooling on a flat roof can lead to severe damage if left unaddressed. Whether it’s due to an aging structure, clogged drains, or freezing issues, we have the expertise to provide effective, long-term solutions. From custom tapered insulation to heat tape and overflow scuppers, our team is here to keep your roof in top condition. If you’re facing water pooling issues or want to prevent them before they start, contact us today.
