How to Address Standing Water on EPDM Roofs: Causes, Problems and Solutions

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How to Address Standing Water on EPDM Roofs: Causes, Problems and Solutions

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EPDM roofing systems, also commonly referred to as rubber roofing, is a great option for flat roofing since the material has great waterproofing properties. With low slope and flat roofs, waterproofing the roof's surface is always a top priority since water won't drain as easily compared to pitched roofs.

Water pooling on an EPDM roof is a clear sign that there isn't proper drainage, and this can cause a lot of serious problems over time. Eventually the ponding water will seep through the EPDM membrane, which can damage the insulation underneath, cause structural damage and compromise the roofing materials to the point that full roof replacement is needed.

Don't let it get to that point! If you catch water ponding issues quickly you can address the underlying problem and ensure there is sufficient drainage so that serious damage doesn't occur.

Have you seen ponding water on your EPDM roof?

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Common Problems That Cause Water Ponding on EPDM Roofs

If you've noticed water ponding on your rooftop there could be a number of factors that are contributing to the problem. The most common causes for water pooling problems are:

Poor Drainage System Design

Flat roofs require careful design and construction in order to ensure sufficient drainage. If an EPDM roof isn't installed properly standing water is one of the issues that can quickly become a problem. It could be a matter of the roof being uneven and water pooling in uneven spots, improper roof slope or the drainage system is simply inadequate for the roof and the local climate.
Clogged Drains

The drainage system may be designed well but poor maintenance has compromised some of the components. Clogged drains are a sign of this and can quickly cause water to backup on the roof near the clog.
Flashing Installation Issues and Damage

The insulation materials that are used with EPDM roofing can get compressed causing the roof surface to be uneven. Wherever the insulation is compressed there will be a low spot where water can collect.
Crushed Insulation That Creates an Uneven Roof Surface

Another common cause for water ponding is flashing that was improperly installed or has become damaged. The whole point of flashing is to prevent water penetration and pooling in the most vulnerable parts of the roof. When there are issues with the flashing, water can penetrate through the the substrate where it collects and eventually causes water pooling on the roof surface.
Degraded Roofing Membrane

This is a chicken or the egg scenario since water pooling can degrade roofing materials. It starts with the roof coating and as roofing materials degrade they become less water resistant and water ponding is more likely.

What to do to Ensure Your EPDM Roof Drains Properly

As you can see, there can be a variety of issues causing water to pool on an EPDM roof. The right roofing solution for water ponding is dependent on the underlying problems.

Clean the Roof and Clear Drains

The first and easiest solution for standing water on EPDM roofs is to give the roofing system a good cleaning. Get debris off the roof, clean out the gutters completely and then clear the drains of any clogs. If there are no other underlying issues this should get the water flowing off the roof properly.

Add More Drainage

When the drainage issues go beyond clogs and cleaning, it may be time to upgrade the system. A few more drains or scuppers can be added to increase water flow off the roof.

Fix Damaged Flashing

If you notice water pooling around areas with flashing, check the condition of the materials. Flashing that is damaged will need to be removed and replaced.

Use Tapered insulation to Raise Low Spots

When water is ponding in low spots the fix can be to add tapered insulation underneath to even out the surface.

Repair Damaged Roofing Materials

If degradation is compromising the water resistance of your roof the compromised materials have to be repaired. This can be as simple as using an EPDM patch with a self-adhesive backing to cover small punctures or tears. A liquid sealant system may be required for water-proofing seams and repairing more significant damage.

Fix the Roof Slope

The biggest problem related to water ponding is a roof that doesn't have the right slope. No roof should be completely flat. There needs to be a slight slope in order for water to drain properly. This is often a major roofing project that will require partial or complete roof replacement.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance to Prevent Future Water Ponding

Once all of the issues are addressed the last thing you want is for the water pooling to start back up again. Having the roof regularly inspected can help you catch problems before water starts pooling and degrading the materials. Regular cleanings and roof maintenance are an absolute must as well.

As soon as you see water ponding it's time to call in a professional roofer. The team at LOA can provide a free roof inspection to determine what's causing water to pool and if it's causing structural issues. If your property is in Central Texas give us a call at 512-375-3654 to schedule a free, no-commitment roof inspection!

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"I got three inspections and decided to use LOA Construction for a new roof. LOA’s Dan Harvey worked with my insurance inspector to make sure all the hail/wind damage was accounted for, gave us a good choice of shingle colors, and was great at communicating. The workers did quality work, found and repaired rotted wood and cleaned up. Highly recommend!"

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"Brandon at LOA construction made replacement of our roof very easy. He was the only roofing contractor that I could find that would work directly with our insurance company. They showed up on time and made the whole process very easy. And we have a great looking high quality roof! I Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new roof. Give them a call if you need a roof or think you might have wind or hail damage. I had several other bids that were higher cost and didn't think our insurance would cover it. Our insurance did cover it, I think they were just unwilling to work with the insurance company. Not Brandon, not only was he will to work with our insurance he met with the adjuster and made the whole thing a breeze. Thanks again LOA and Brandon!!!!"

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LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

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From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

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As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

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Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

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Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

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Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

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