Whether or not a roof is ponding is a concern for anyone who has a flat roof. When a roof is ponding, the water will not properly drain from the roof and will instead form a pond on top of the roof. This can cause serious damage and you will need a roof inspection to determine how to solve this problem.

Pressure on Your Roof

When a pond forms on your roof, the weight of the water can damage the roof by causing it to sag. This can lead to holes forming on the roof that allow water to seep through. This is a problem especially in the winter when heavy snow places extra weight on the roof.

Damage to the Structural Integrity

Ponding can gradually weaken the structural integrity of your roof. For example, the metal components of your roof can rust when exposed to moisture. Mold can also form and cause your roof to become damaged over time.

Pest Infestation

Your roof might become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests might be attracted to your roof because of the availability of water. Geese and seagulls might decide to nest on your roof.

A Damaged Coating

Your roof can leak for a variety of reasons because of a damaged coating. The coating often becomes damaged when the sun's rays heat the water ponding on your roof. The water can also freeze and damage the coating. Then, the coating can no longer protect your roof from leaks.

Leaks and Water Damage

When water is able to seep through the roof membrane, this can lead to water damage for your building. This can cost more money than if you would simply hire a roofing contractor to repair the roof so that it no longer suffers from the ponding problem.

Normally, a flat roof will have a slope that guides the water to the drain. However, the roof might be damaged in such a way that prevents the roof from sloping toward the drain or the roof might have never been constructed properly in the first place. A roofing contractor can repitch the roof so that it will slope properly.

The drain could be clogged and may need to be cleared. Performing regular maintenance on the roof and clearing out the drain will allow water to drain from the roof properly. However, if your roof is already damaged, you may need a roof inspection from a roofing contractor.