Addressing Standing Water Issues On Commercial Roofs

Standing water on a commercial roof is a problem that too often gets pushed down the to-do list. But just because the water isn’t gushing inside doesn’t mean your roof is in the clear. When water is left sitting for hours or even days, it starts to take a toll. Over time, puddles can lead to leaks, warping, mold, and even structural damage. Ignoring the issue doesn’t solve anything. It usually makes the repair more expensive down the line.

For buildings with flat or low-sloped roofs, standing water is a common headache, especially after summer storms or heavy rain. In areas like Murfreesboro, where humidity and sudden downpours are more frequent, water can linger longer than expected. Spotting early signs and understanding the steps to take helps keep your commercial space protected.

Common Causes Of Standing Water On Commercial Roofs

Before finding the right solution, it helps to figure out what’s causing the water buildup. In many cases, it's not one single factor. It's usually a mix of small problems that come together over time. Some of the main causes include:

- Poor drainage systems: If the original design lacked enough drains or positioned them poorly, water gets stuck. Even minor layout issues can cause puddling during storms.

- Sagging or uneven surfaces: Over time, aging materials or pressure from rooftop equipment can cause portions of the roof to sink or dip. Once that happens, those areas become natural collection points for water.

- Blocked or clogged drains and gutters: Debris like leaves, dirt, branches, or even animal nests can block water flow. When gutters or downspouts get clogged, water backs up and starts pooling on the roof surface.

Take the example of a warehouse with one corner that always seems wet after it rains. On closer inspection, the downspout near that area is blocked by dirt and leaves. Toss in a worn-out patch of roofing that dips just a bit, and you’ve got the perfect spot for water to settle.

Knowing where the problem comes from makes it easier to build a lasting solution.

Quick Actions You Can Take To Reduce Roof Water Pooling

If your commercial roof is showing signs of water buildup, there are simple steps you can take to reduce stress on the structure while you figure out permanent repairs. These won’t solve the deeper issue, but they do help limit additional wear and tear.

1. Move water off the surface. Use a push broom, foam squeegee, or mop to guide water toward working drains. Don’t use metal tools that could damage the roof.

2. Set up temporary pumps. In areas where water gathers fast, a submersible pump can make a big difference. It helps prevent water from sitting around too long.

3. Clear out blockages. Check your gutters and drains. Remove anything that’s causing water to back up, including trash, leaves, or tree limbs.

4. Apply a waterproof patch. For areas with persistent puddling, temporary waterproof rolls or coatings can prevent water from soaking deeper into the surface.

5. Track problem spots. Make a note of where the water builds up after each storm. This will help during future evaluations and repairs.

Temporary steps like these give you a little breathing room. But the longer water sits on your roof, the more likely it is to cause long-term problems. Fast action reduces the chance of hidden damage and helps protect your investment.

Long-Term Solutions To Prevent Standing Water On Commercial Roofs

Addressing the source of standing water takes more in-depth work. Permanent solutions won’t just handle the current problem. They also keep it from coming back during future storms. If your property deals with recurring roof pooling, it’s time to look into more lasting corrections.

Start by looking at drainage. Adding new drains in problem areas or reworking the angles that lead water to existing drains can make a big improvement. The current system might not be large enough or set up correctly based on where runoff naturally flows.

In some cases, leveling the roof is the path forward. Over time, flat roofs can settle unevenly. When dips form, water gets trapped. Fixing the slope with tapered insulation or resurfacing sections of the roof can guide water out more efficiently. This process might feel big, but it often saves money down the road by avoiding repeated damage and repairs.

Routine inspections and seasonal maintenance are just as important. Small cracks, early sagging, or backed-up drains are easy to miss until they become bigger issues. Scheduled roof checks can help catch these signs early. Cleaning debris after storms or trimming nearby trees also helps keep drainage paths open all year long.

Each roof has its own challenges, but the goal is the same. Keep water flowing off the surface and away from anything critical inside the building, from electrical panels to HVAC units and stored inventory.

Why Professional Roof Repairs Matter

It might be tempting to make a few quick repairs or patch things up yourself. But commercial flat roofs can be deceptive. A trouble spot on the surface might seem small, while the real damage is deeper down—and that means the issue could come back worse if not properly handled.

That’s where experienced professionals come in. Roofing teams with commercial knowledge inspect everything, from how storms affect water flow to how the drainage system is holding up. They’re trained to catch things you might miss and understand how all the parts of your roofing system work together.

They also bring tools that tell a bigger story. For example, moisture meters or infrared scanners can locate trapped water under the surface. Left undetected, that hidden water can slowly weaken the roof and lead to more serious damage.

Skilled pros don’t just handle repairs. They help you plan. Seasonal maintenance agreements or inspection schedules take the guesswork out of roof care. They give you peace of mind that someone is watching the roof before problems come up—not after.

For business owners in Murfreesboro, working with a team that knows the local conditions helps make sure your roof can take on everything the weather throws at it from one season to the next.

Stay Ahead of Roof Issues Before They Grow

Once standing water shows up on your commercial roof, it doesn’t take long to start seeing signs of wear. Whether the problem starts with blocked drains, sagging materials, or poor long-term design, it usually points to a bigger issue that needs more than a temporary fix.

Understanding the source of water pooling helps you make the right repairs. Acting fast with temporary solutions limits short-term damage, while investing in long-term changes keeps those same spots from becoming a problem next year.

Getting the roof back on track is easier when you bring trained specialists into the process. They know what to look for, what tools to use, and the best path forward for your specific building type and layout. It means less worrying about wear and more confidence that your roof will perform during every season.

If you're dealing with persistent roof leaks or pooling water, taking action now can help prevent expensive repairs down the line. Our experience with commercial roofing in Murfreesboro means we know how to protect your building from future damage. At Edwards Roofing, we’re ready to inspect your roof, find the source of the issue, and recommend effective solutions tailored to your needs.