At Best Choice Roofing, we’re proud to provide homeowners across Ohio with top-quality asphalt shingle solutions—including three-tab, architectural, premium, and impact-resistant shingles. No matter your home’s style or budget, we have the perfect roofing option to help you feel safe, secure, and proud of your investment. But even the best shingles need a little backup when it comes to a common Ohio roofing challenge: ponding water, especially on low-slope designs.
Low-slope roofs are common across many Ohio homes, but they come with a unique issue: water doesn’t always drain as easily as it should. When rainwater sticks around for longer than 48 hours, it’s known as “ponding.” And trust us—it’s more than just a puddle. Ponding water can cause shingles to deteriorate faster, lead to leaks, attract algae and mold, and even damage the structure of your roof. That’s why catching and correcting ponding water early is essential for protecting your roof and your home.
So, how do you deal with it? Here are the top 4 ways to address ponding water on your asphalt shingle roof, especially if you have a low-slope design here in Ohio.
1. Improve Drainage with Tapered Insulation or Crickets
The root of ponding water is often poor drainage. On low-slope roofs, water doesn’t have gravity working in its favor like it would on a steeper slope. That’s where tapered insulation and roof crickets come in.
Tapered insulation adds a subtle slope to your roof without having to rebuild the entire thing. Similarly, crickets are small ridge structures installed behind roof features (like chimneys or vents) to redirect water toward drains or gutters. Both methods are great for improving water flow and keeping ponding at bay.
2. Check and Clean Gutters Regularly
It might seem simple, but clogged gutters and downspouts are often to blame for water backing up onto your roof. In Ohio, especially during fall when leaves pile up quickly, it’s vital to clear gutters regularly—ideally at least twice a year or after heavy storms.
While you’re at it, check the slope of your gutter system. If water isn’t flowing freely, it could be pooling at the edge of your roof and seeping under your shingles.
3. Seal and Reinforce Vulnerable Areas
Low-slope roofs are more prone to leaks, so it’s important to stay on top of sealant maintenance. Flashing around vents, skylights, and edges should be checked annually for cracks or deterioration.
You can also use waterproof membranes or roofing sealants in key spots where ponding water is common. While this won’t fix the drainage issue, it’s a great short-term measure to protect your home until a more permanent solution is in place.
4. Consider a Roof Redesign or Slope Adjustment
If your roof is constantly dealing with ponding and you’ve tried everything else, it might be time to adjust the slope or redesign sections of your roof. This is a bigger investment, but for homes that experience regular water pooling, it can extend your roof’s life by decades and save you from ongoing repairs.
At Best Choice Roofing, we can help assess whether your current design is hurting your home more than helping, and recommend the most budget-friendly options to improve it.
Protect Your Home—Call the Pros Today!
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, and ponding water shouldn’t be ignored. If you’ve noticed standing water, sagging shingles, or signs of water damage in your attic, don’t wait until it turns into a major problem.
At Best Choice Roofing, we proudly serve Ohio homeowners with expert roofing solutions tailored to their needs. Whether you’re dealing with ponding water, thinking about a full roof replacement, or just need a second opinion, we’re here to help. Schedule your free inspection today and take the first step toward a safer, stronger roof!
