Clogged Roof Head Drains
For industrial and commercial building owners in Des Plaines, Park Ridge, Mount Prospect, and Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs, clogged roof head drains are far more than a minor inconvenience—they’re a ticking time bomb for your property. Roof drains, designed to channel rainwater and debris off your roof, are prone to blockages from leaves, twigs, trash, and even sediment buildup over time. In our region’s climate, where heavy snowfall, autumn leaf fall, and spring rains are relentless, neglected drains quickly escalate into costly emergencies. Left unaddressed, clogs lead to water pooling, structural damage, and even regulatory fines for unsafe building conditions. Estimates are always free, call us at 847-518-5338 to get started or email us at info+greentechplumbing.com 24 hours a day.
The Consequences of Neglecting Roof Head Drains
Clogged roof head drains don’t just cause leaks; they trigger a domino effect of damage:
- Deterioration of Roofing Materials
Stagnant water accelerates wear on critical roofing components like caulk, flashing, and waterproof membranes. In extreme cases, prolonged exposure weakens the roof’s integrity, leading to sagging or partial collapses—a nightmare for flat-roofed commercial buildings. - Water Seepage and Structural Damage
Pooling water near HVAC units, chimneys, or skylights seeps into seams, rotting wooden supports, corroding metal fixtures, and compromising insulation. Over time, this moisture infiltrates interior walls, damaging drywall, electrical systems, and inventory. - Freeze-Thaw Cycle Damage
In Chicagoland’s harsh winters, trapped water expands as it freezes, widening cracks in concrete, brick, and roofing materials. Repeated cycles turn minor fissures into gaping cracks, requiring expensive repairs. - Structural Strain
Just 1 inch of standing water adds 5-6 pounds per square foot of weight to your roof. For large industrial buildings, this excess load stresses support beams and increases the risk of catastrophic failure. - Plant and Algae Growth
Stagnant water fosters moss, weeds, and algae, which degrade roofing materials and create slippery surfaces. Root systems from invasive plants can puncture membranes, voiding warranties. - Ice Patch Hazards
In winter, pooled water freezes into treacherous ice patches, endangering employees, customers, and maintenance crews. - Mosquito Breeding and Health Risks
Standing water attracts mosquitoes, rodents, and bacteria, turning your roof into a health hazard. For facilities like restaurants, warehouses, or medical centers, this can lead to health code violations.
Green Tech Plumbing Co.
Roof Head Drain Experts
We work with roofers, property managers, and industrial property owners to get their roof head drains in shape.

Preventative Measures for Roof Head Drains
Regular maintenance prevents clogs:
- Monthly Inspections: Check drains for debris or damage.
- Post-Storm Cleanup: Remove branches, leaves, and trash after severe weather.
- Proper Drain Domes: Use correctly sized domes (larger domes reduce clogs but need larger pipes).
- Avoid Chemicals: Clear drains with a garden hose; harsh chemicals corrode pipes.
Serving Chicago & Northern Suburbs

Emergency Roof Drain Services in Des Plaines
A single clogged drain can lead to thousands in repair costs—from roof replacements to mold remediation. For over 15 years, Green Tech Plumbing has protected commercial properties across Des Plaines, Arlington Heights, and the Northwest Suburbs with:
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24/7 Emergency Response
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Transparent, Upfront Pricing
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Compliance with Local Building Codes
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Warranty-Backed Workmanship
Don’t wait for the next storm to expose your vulnerabilities. Call us at (847) 518-5338 for a free roof drain inspection. We’ll provide a detailed assessment and customized solution to safeguard your property—and your peace of mind.
Schedule a Free Inspection or Request an Emergency Quote to protect your roof from water damage.

