What Is A Water Ponding?
What Is A Water Ponding?
Water ponding refers to the buildup of water on flat surfaces such as balconies, driveways, flat decks, and slab-on-grade foundations. This can occur due to internal factors, such as water seeping upward from below the surface, or external factors, like rainwater.
The plumbing is installed before the concrete slab is poured in slab-on-grade foundation installations, which means that problems like cracks, leaks, and bursts may go undetected until they appear on the surface.
Water ponding can lead to damage to the slab material and the structure itself. This is often caused by poor rainwater drainage, groundwater seepage, or leaks from pipes beneath the surface. Pooling or ponding of water on the surface of the slab is typically a sign of a leak.
Concrete is porous and allows liquids or gases to pass through, so when water accumulates on the underside of the foundation, it seeks an escape route, usually penetrating the concrete slab and appearing as excessive water on the surface.
Leaks can be located through video inspections of pipes, which can be performed without disturbing the surface. Unaddressed leaks on a slab-on-grade can severely impact the structural integrity of the slab and the supported structure.
Effect Of Water Ponding
Water ponding can be a serious problem if not addressed promptly. When water accumulates on a roof, it can seep into the roof and its surroundings due to capillary flow. This can cause damage to the roof and walls, including peeling and discoloration of paint and plaster and dampness in the walls.
To fix this, one must treat the roof with waterproofing chemicals and repair the walls, which can be expensive. In addition, the capillary flow of rainwater can also lead to the growth of insects and fungi such as moss on the walls.
To prevent this, one must also adopt anti-fungal treatment for the roof and walls adding to the cost
Why Does Water Ponding Occur?
Water ponding is a common issue that occurs when water cannot drain away after a heavy rainstorm or downpour. It’s mainly caused by poor water runoff and insufficient slope, which results in water accumulation on exterior concrete floors.
The lack of flatness and slope in an area can make it easier for water ponding to occur. However, even if the concrete floor is laid flat over time it may start to sag and cause water to pool in sunken areas. Additionally, water ponding can also happen as a result of concrete surface repair if the repair work is not done properly and results in a surface that is thicker or less flat than the original surface.
In some cases, ponding may occur near wastewater treatment systems, which need to be dislodged by professionals.
How Can You Prevent Or Correct Water Ponding?
To prevent or correct water ponding, it is necessary to grind down any high areas of concrete that are causing water to collect on its surface, taking care not to grind them too much so as not to cause new areas of water ponding to develop.
In addition, low areas should be filled with appropriate material using a screed tool and should not be filled beyond the height reached by the water. With these precautions taken, your surfaces should remain dry and safe after rain showers.
Importance Of Roofing Material For Water Ponding
Roofing material plays a crucial role in protecting a roof from heavy rainfall, snowfall and even fire. A properly chosen roofing material can enhance the durability and appearance of a roof while also reducing heat absorption.
The use of a wood shingle roof can add aesthetic appeal while roofing material can also help create a cool and pleasant atmosphere inside a building during extreme temperatures outside.
