Florida’s rainy season brings intense storms and heavy downpours, which can create serious issues for flat commercial roofs—especially if roof drains are clogged. When water can’t drain, it begins to pool, and the weight adds up quickly.
How quickly? Let’s break it down.
The Weight of Water: A Shocking Reality
Imagine a 10,000 square foot flat roof—a typical size for many commercial buildings. During a storm with 2 inches of rainfall in just one hour, the numbers are staggering:
• 12,400 gallons of water will accumulate on the roof.
• Each gallon of water weighs 8.34 pounds.
• That’s a total weight of over 103,400 pounds—the equivalent of 20 full-size Ford F-150 trucks sitting on your roof!
What’s the Risk of Standing Water?
Pooled water on a flat roof is more than just a nuisance. It poses several serious risks:
1. Structural Strain: Flat roofs are designed to drain water efficiently. When water pools, it adds extreme weight, putting stress on the structure and support system.
2. Leaks and Interior Damage: Excess water can find its way into the smallest cracks or seams, leading to roof leaks, ceiling damage, and costly interior repairs.
3. Roof Collapse: In extreme cases, the weight of pooled water can cause a roof to sag or collapse, endangering your property, equipment, and occupants.
How to Prevent Roof Drain Issues
The good news? All of this is preventable with proper maintenance and proactive care. Here’s what you can do:
✅ Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Roof drains can become clogged with leaves, debris, and dirt. Routine inspections ensure they’re clear and functioning properly.
✅ Invest in a Preventative Maintenance Plan: A professional roofing contractor can perform scheduled checks, clean drains, and identify early signs of damage to prevent issues before they escalate.
✅ Repair Minor Damage Promptly: Small cracks or seams can let water in. Addressing these repairs early avoids bigger, more expensive problems later.
Why Partner with Aderhold Roofing?
At Aderhold Roofing, we specialize in commercial flat roof maintenance and preventative care. With Florida’s heavy rains, it’s critical to keep your drains clear and your roof ready for the storms ahead. Our expert team will:
• Inspect your roof for damage and debris.
• Clear drains to ensure proper water flow.
• Provide a tailored Preventative Maintenance Plan to protect your roof year-round.
Don’t Wait Until Water Becomes 20 Trucks!
Preventative maintenance is a small investment compared to the cost of repairs, property damage, or structural failure caused by standing water.
📞 Call Aderhold Roofing today at 813-681- to schedule your roof inspection.
🌐 Visit AderholdRoofing.com to learn more about our preventative services.