Severe, critical ponding caused by negative slope on an EPDM commercial roof.

Ponding

Performance - Ponding water is accumulated water that remains on a roof surface for more than 48 hours after rainfall.

What Causes Ponding Water on Low-Slope Roofs

Ponding water most commonly appears on flat or low-slope commercial roofs after heavy rainfall. Because these roofs are designed with minimal pitch, water can collect in low areas if slope is insufficient or water’s path to the roof’s drainage system is restricted.

Standing water immediately after a storm is normal. However, water that remains standing for more than 48 hours may indicate a drainage or slope issue. Persistent ponding increases stress on the roof membrane and can accelerate deterioration.

Roofs are designed to keep water out and channel water away from the building. Ponding suggests that additional slope is necessary for the latter to occur.

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Further Reading

Drains vs Scuppers on Flat Roof Systems
Learn how two common drainage methods on commercial roofs channel water away.

How Ponding Water Affects a Commercial Flat Roof
Why standing water can damage membranes and shorten roof life.

Commercial Roof Failure Points: Drainage
Explore how poor drainage contributes to premature roof failure.

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