Any landlord or business owner who owns a building with a flat roof can attest to the fact that pooling water is a huge issue. It can cause permanent damage to the roof and the structure below, flooding, and many other issues for the building’s occupants. That’s why drainage is such an important issue in commercial roofing. It can save you from costly repairs and maintenance and decrease the number of issues you run into with your flat roof.
Effective flat roofing drainage is important. Here’s how you can make sure your flat roof is draining properly.
Look for Problem Spots
Next time there is moderate rain in your area, head on up to your roof after the rain stops and take a look around. Do you see any spots of pooling water? If so, these are areas on your flat roof that are not draining properly. There should be little to no standing water on your flat roof. If there is, there is a problem that must be addressed.
The same can be said throughout the winter months. You want to keep an eye on where ice may be building up after it has snowed and eventually melted.
Look Into Drainage Systems
There are many ways to drain a flat roofing system. From traditional commercial gutters to scuppers, interior drains, and siphonic roof drains, there’s a proper drainage system for every roof. It’s an investment, but it’s far better than the alternative: damage to the roof and structure below. Find a drainage system that works for your building and takes steps to have it installed as soon as possible.
Invest in Snow and Ice Removal
Commercial flat roofs are great at accumulating snow, and no drainage system is enough to keep them snow and ice-free during periods of frequent heavy snowstorms and freezing cold temperatures. You’ll want to invest in snow and ice removal to keep your roof clear and allow the drainage systems to properly do their jobs.
Consider Roofing Replacement
Some commercial flat roofs are simply too old and do not feature modern drainage systems that keep them clear of water, snow, and ice. If this is the case for your building, it’s likely time for a replacement roof to be installed. Some older roofs simply cannot work with modern drainage systems, and keeping your old commercial roof will run you into more issues down the line. You can put off the replacement for a few years, but you will likely be hit with multiple repair bills not only to the roof itself but also to the building and offices/rooms below.
Don’t wait. Get a replacement estimate on your commercial roof today. Contact Schmidt Roofing for a free inspection and estimate.
