In February and March, when the frigid temperatures begin to fade away in South Jersey, commercial building owners find themselves face-to-face with a common roofing issue: ponding water. While flat roof systems like TPO and EPDM are designed to resist moisture buildup, drainage issues can develop in the winter, leading to standing water. Over time, the roof will weaken, leading to compromised seams and even a voided warranty. Preventing roof ponding after snowmelt should be a top priority for these reasons, which is why we’re here to help you. Follow the tips in this article to extend your roof’s lifespan and avoid costly commercial roof repairs.
Key Takeaways
- Roof ponding occurs when melting snow or rainwater collects in low areas on flat or low-slope roofs.
- TPO and EPDM roofs resist moisture but still need proper drainage and maintenance to prevent ponding.
- Clogged drains, sagging roof decks, or uneven slopes are the most common causes of standing water.
- Regular inspections and cleaning after winter can stop leaks and extend your roof’s lifespan.
- Adding tapered insulation or crickets can help redirect water toward drains for long-term drainage improvement.
Why Does Roof Ponding Happen?
Preventing roof ponding won’t happen unless you know the reason it begins. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) are extremely durable, some of the best materials for flat and low-slope roofs. Yet, that doesn’t make TPO and EPDM any less susceptible to water accumulation, especially after snow and ice buildup. Water may pool in low spots rather than following to a drain or scupper.
The common issues behind roof ponding include:
- Poor drainage design: One of the largest components of roof ponding is poor design. Drains may not have been placed in the areas where the water would naturally collect.
- Clogged drains or gutters: Debris and ice may block water flow, causing it to flow back onto the roof. This can be exacerbated by poor drainage design.
- Roof sagging or structural settling: Buildings naturally settle with age. Water weight may also develop depressions in membranes where water collects.
- Membrane damage: Blisters, punctures, or seam failures can trap water beneath the surface.
What Happens if Ponding Water is Ignored?
Preventing roof ponding may not seem like something that needs to be at the top of your massive to-do list. However, even shallow ponding water can lead to big issues. Here’s what ponding water may cause:
- Degraded membranes and seams, especially in areas exposed to UV rays.
- Algae and mold growth, which weaken roofing materials.
- Increased likelihood of leaks and insulation damage.
- Added weight that stresses the roof deck and building structure.
- Voided manufacturer warranties due to neglect.
In other words, preventing roof ponding is part of a maintenance strategy, one that not only preserves your roof but your warranty. It’s about getting the most out of your investment.
Tips for Preventing Roof Ponding After Winter
The best time to start preventing roof ponding is before winter or immediately after the snow melts. Begin checking your commercial property for drainage problems at least twice a year. If you’re located near water, such as in Cape May County, you may need to do it more often. Here are some tips to help you keep your roof in its best condition:
1. Schedule a Post-Winter Roof Inspection
A professional inspection by a South Jersey roofing contractor like RGB Construction can help identify the issues that lead to roof ponding. Inspectors look for low spots, clogged drains, and membrane wear. Furthermore, roofers can tell you whether the ponding is due to material wear or an inadequate slope and help solve the issue.
2. Clean Roof Drains and Gutters
Clear out debris, leaves, and ice buildup from drains, scuppers, and gutters. Ensuring unobstructed flow is the simplest and most effective way to prevent ponding.
3. Check for Structural Issues
Depending on the lay of the land and your building type, you may be able to visually inspect the roof from the ground. Do you notice any sagging or settling areas? Depressions that hold water for more than 48 hours are a problem that needs to be repaired. A commercial roofer in South Jersey can help re-level the roof deck and restore drainage.
4. Inspect Flashing and Seams
Flashing and seams need to be tightly sealed in order to maintain a waterproof barrier. This is especially true for TPO roofs. The material is fixed to your roof with a heat-weld. Any cracks or loosening of flashing and seams will lead to leaks that reach beneath the membrane. Ponding further exacerbates this.
5. Consider Adding Crickets or Tapered Insulation
Ongoing roof maintenance—especially after severe weather—keeps minor problems from becoming expensive failures. Professional roofers can identify trouble areas early and recommend cost-effective fixes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is roof ponding?
Roof ponding happens when water remains on a flat or low-slope roof for more than 48 hours after rainfall or snowmelt. It usually indicates poor drainage or roof deck sagging.
2. Can ponding water damage TPO and EPDM roofs?
Yes. Prolonged ponding can weaken seams, promote algae growth, and increase the risk of leaks or membrane deterioration.
3. How can I tell if my roof has ponding issues?
Look for dark stains, algae buildup, or visible water puddles after rain or snowmelt. These signs suggest areas where drainage is insufficient.
4. What’s the best way to prevent roof ponding?
Keep drains clear, inspect the roof for low spots, and schedule routine maintenance to ensure proper water flow. Tapered insulation and added drains are long-term solutions.
5. Will roof ponding void my warranty?
In many cases, yes. Most manufacturers require proper drainage to maintain warranty coverage, so addressing ponding quickly is important.
6. How often should I have my commercial roof inspected?
Schedule professional inspections at least twice a year—ideally in early spring and fall—to identify and fix drainage issues before they worsen.
7. Can RGB Construction fix roof ponding issues?
Absolutely. RGB Construction provides commercial roof inspections, drainage corrections, and maintenance services for TPO and EPDM systems across Cape May County.
Preventing Roof Ponding is Easy with RGB Construction
Preventing roof ponding begins with maintenance, inspections, and the understanding that keeping your roof dry preserves your investment. Not only that, but a dry roof means less risk of expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive repairs. So after a tough South Jersey winter, make sure your commercial roof is ready for the meltwater by scheduling an inspection. Our South Jersey commercial roofing team has to experience and skill you want when it comes to maintaining your roof.
Schedule a Commercial Roof Inspection with RGB Construction
Don’t let ponding water shorten your roof’s lifespan. RGB Construction offers inspections, drainage improvements, and maintenance for TPO and EPDM roofs throughout Cape May County.
At RGB Construction, we’re trusted by South Jersey businesses for reliable commercial roofing and drainage solutions.
