How Do I Get Rid of Ponding Water on My Chicago Flat Roof?

Ponding water is one of the most common issues on flat roofs, especially here in Chicago where heavy rain and snow are frequent. Ponding water happens when water sits on your roof for more than 48 hours after rainfall instead of properly draining off. Over time, this standing water can weaken the roofing material, cause leaks, and shorten the overall lifespan of your roof.

For many homeowners, ponding water is often a sign that the roof is no longer sloped correctly or has developed low areas. These low spots can form due to structural settling, insulation compression, or improper installation.

At Anchor Point Roofing, we address ponding water issues by correcting the slope of the roof. One common solution is installing a cricket system, which helps redirect water toward drains. Another effective method is adding tapered insulation to build up low areas and improve drainage across the roof surface.

If the issue is isolated, targeted roof repairs may be enough to resolve the problem. However, if ponding water is widespread or has caused significant damage, a full roof replacement may be the best long-term solution.

If you’re dealing with ponding water on your Chicago flat roof, it’s important to address it early before it leads to more costly damage.

Here’s the link to our YouTube video about this: https://youtu.be/MAKlw9CMtRg?si=yalzLc34z-UKCN7F

Location: Chicago, IL