Don’t Let Ponding Water Sink Your RV Adventures: Essential Drainage Solutions for Franklin County’s Flat RV Roofs

For RV owners in Franklin County, NC, few things can ruin the excitement of your next adventure like discovering water damage from a leaking roof. Ponding water occurs when water builds up and stagnates on the surface of a roof for longer than 48 hours, and it’s a particularly common problem for RVs with flat or low-slope roofs. Understanding how to prevent and address ponding water issues is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring safe, comfortable travels.

Understanding the Ponding Water Problem

According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, any water found ponding on flat roofs for longer than 2 full days should be examined by a professional. While some water accumulation after heavy rain is normal, persistent ponding poses serious risks to your RV’s structural integrity and interior.

Water ponding increases the likelihood of leaks because it deteriorates roof materials. Once you start seeing a roof leak on the interior of the home or building, the issue is much greater than one small leak. The consequences can include:

• Roof deck deflection that compromises structural integrity, frequent icing and thawing damage, and algae and vegetation growth that damages flat roof membranes
• Structural damage from added water weight, leaks that damage ceilings and walls, and deterioration of roofing materials that shortens the roof’s lifespan
• Potential voiding of your RV warranty if drainage issues aren’t addressed promptly

Common Causes of Ponding on RV Roofs

Several factors contribute to ponding water problems on flat RV roofs:

Any flat or extremely low slope roof needs adequate drainage. Besides poor roof design, a lack of sufficient drainage is one of the main culprits of ponding water and roof damage. Specific causes include:

• Minimal slope that doesn’t allow adequate movement of water to drains and scuppers
• Building settlement over time that changes the roof’s original slope, creating low spots where water ponds
• Clogged drain systems from leaves, branches, mud, or other foreign bodies that impede water flow
• Compressed insulation from heavy items or foot traffic that creates low spots which naturally collect water

Effective Drainage Solutions

Fortunately, there are several proven solutions to address ponding water on flat RV roofs:

Immediate Drainage Improvements

Regularly cleaning gutter channels and downspouts is crucial to prevent blockages that can cause water to back up and pool on the roof’s surface. Additionally, consider installing larger or additional drainage points to improve water flow.

Many commercial roofing issues are caused by clogged drains. Simple maintenance like clearing debris can often resolve minor ponding issues immediately.

Slope Correction Methods

For more persistent problems, slope correction may be necessary:

• Installing a tapered roof system, which involves adding tapered insulation to a flat roof to facilitate water runoff
• Using tapered insulation panels, usually 4′ x 4′, which fix the slope of the roof and add to the building’s energy efficiency
• Installing a new tapered foam-board system to re-pitch the entire roof if it’s overly flat with many low areas collecting water

Advanced Repair Solutions

For severe ponding issues, professional intervention may be required:

• Installing roof crickets made with rigid foam-board and shaped to the desired form, with new membrane added above to divert rainwater around the repair area
• Applying fluid-applied silicone roof coating, which is one of the only roofing materials rated to withstand ponding water when installed by a certified applicator
• Adding more drain lines strategically placed to ensure water is efficiently removed, preventing standing water during storms and heavy rain

Prevention and Maintenance

After rainfall, ensure there is no water pooling on the RV roof, as stagnant water can damage roof materials over time. Clean roof drainage by clearing debris around roof drains, vents, or gutters to prevent clogs.

Regular maintenance should include:

• Quarterly roof inspections, especially after severe weather
• Immediate removal of debris like leaves and branches
• Annual resealing of roof seams and penetrations
• Professional drainage system evaluation every few years

Professional RV Roof Repair Services in Franklin County

When ponding water problems require professional attention, Franklin County RV owners can turn to trusted local experts. As Franklin County’s most trusted RV repair professionals, experienced technicians will perform a thorough evaluation of the vehicle to accurately diagnose the problem, using the highest quality tools and materials combined with proven techniques.

For comprehensive RV Roof Repair Franklin County NC services, Stream RV stands out as a leader in the region. Trust, integrity, and respect are the bedrock of their company, and these values are translated into the services they provide their customers. Their commitment to delivering exceptional quality and providing outstanding customer service has established them as one of the most reputable RV repair shops in Franklin County, handling everything from RV body repair to RV roof replacement.

Located only 25 minutes from the ‘Triangle’ formed by Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, they’re easily accessible even from the Raleigh-Durham International airport in under 30 minutes.

Cost Considerations

The cost to fix standing water on a flat roof depends on the issue’s severity and repair methods. Simple fixes like clearing clogged drains typically cost $100 to $800, while more complex repairs like adding tapered insulation or extra drainage can range from $2,000 to $5,000. Major structural repairs or full replacement can cost $15,000 or more.

However, addressing ponding water issues promptly is always more cost-effective than dealing with extensive water damage later. A single overlooked crack can lead to water damage sometimes costing well over $5,000, and just one rainy night with a missed seam can leave you with soggy interiors and water-stained walls.

Conclusion

Preventing ponding water on your RV’s flat roof requires vigilance, regular maintenance, and prompt professional attention when problems arise. Dealing with standing water on flat roofs is essential to protect your property. By knowing the causes and risks, homeowners can take steps to prevent damage, and getting professional help ensures the right solutions are used to protect your roof and extend its life.

Don’t let ponding water derail your RV adventures. With proper drainage solutions and the support of experienced professionals in Franklin County, you can keep your RV road-ready and your travels worry-free for years to come.