Ponding water is a seemingly innocuous term, but its implications for your roof can be far-reaching. It refers to the condition where water accumulates on your roof and remains stagnant for an extended period, typically 48 hours or more after rainfall. While it might seem a temporary inconvenience, ponding water can be a persistent and damaging problem, especially on flat or low-slope roofs with limited drainage capabilities.
The consequences of ponding water extend beyond the surface, affecting both your roof's structural integrity and the living space below.
One of the most immediate and significant effects of ponding water is its impact on roofing materials. The prolonged exposure to moisture accelerates the aging process of these materials, causing them to deteriorate prematurely.
What may have started as a robust and durable roof can quickly become vulnerable when faced with the relentless presence of ponded water.
As moisture infiltrates roofing materials, it can lead to various issues such as:
The most apparent consequence of ponding water is its potential to cause roof leaks. Over time, ponding weakens your roofing system's structural integrity, compromising the roof's ability to shed water effectively. This compromised barrier allows water to seep through, infiltrating your building's interior.
The result can be a cascade of costly water damage:
The weight of ponding water imposes an undue burden on your roof's structural components. Over time, the constant pressure and moisture exposure can lead to roof deck deterioration. The moisture weakens the roof's wooden or metal deck, causing it to lose its load-bearing capacity. This poses a significant risk to the safety of your building.
In extreme cases, a compromised roof deck can result in sagging ceilings, structural damage, or even partial roof collapse. Repairing these structural issues can be both costly and disruptive.
Ponding water creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. These microorganisms thrive in damp, stagnant conditions, and once they take hold, they can rapidly spread. Beyond the unsightly stains and odors they produce, mold and mildew can pose serious health risks to the occupants of the affected building.
Exposure to mold and mildew can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. The removal and remediation of mold growth can be expensive and disruptive, often requiring professional intervention to ensure complete eradication.
Certain types of roofs are more susceptible to ponding water:
The implications of ponding water on your roof's condition are substantial, affecting both its structural integrity and the comfort of your living space. Recognizing the signs of ponding and taking prompt action to prevent or address it is essential for preserving your roof's health and longevity.
Trusting the experts at Pickard Roofing ensures that your roofing needs are handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Contact us today to get started!
At Pickard Roofing, we think Design. Craft. Renew. We are experienced in all types of roofing systems- and provide the right roofing design and selective craftsmanship for renewing our customer’s assets. We invite sustainable building customers to give us a call for your free evaluation. For over 90 years Pickard Roofing Company has installed countless metal, tile, slate, TPO, EPDM, and all types of shingle roofing in the Triangle. Our services include residential, commercial, custom architectural metal fabrication, and historical renovation.