Undermining the importance of flat roof maintenance is like throwing away an umbrella during a thunderstorm as you’re not getting wet. Just because there are no roofs with your flat roof, it doesn’t mean problems won’t develop.
Regular maintenance and assessments conducted by roofers can enhance the durability of your roof. Moreover, a well-maintained roof optimizes your property’s energy efficiency by decreasing cooling and heating costs.
If you want the most out of your flat roof, it is crucial to implement preventive maintenance techniques. It promotes structural integrity and generates financial savings. Let’s explore the integral components of flat roof repair and maintenance.
Understanding the Shape of Flat Roofs
Flat roofs aren’t completely horizontal. They comprise a slight slope to allow efficient drainage of water. These roofs comprise several layers, including insulation, roofing membranes, protective coating, etc. The common roofing materials for a flat roof are EPDM, asphalt, bitumen, etc.
Signs Your Property’s Flat Roof Requires Repairs and Maintenance
You must know about the common signs that indicate roof repairs and maintenance. Though considered durable, flat roofs are prone to several issues due to their design. The low-sloped design exposes the roof to a wide variety of external elements. Listed are some of the warning signs that indicate your flat roof requires maintenance.
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Leaks
Cracks, punctures, or deteriorated seams in the roofing membrane can cause leaks. It also indicates a breach in your roof’s waterproofing layers.
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Accumulation of Water
Improper drainage is the primary reason behind water accumulation. When water pools on the roof’s surface, it can cause extensive structural damage.
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Formation of Blisters
Blisters develop when air or moisture gets trapped under the membrane of your roof. This trapped moisture and air can weaken your roof’s protective layer and make it more prone to leaks.
Growth of Mold
The presence of mold can be a telltale sign of water damage on your roof. It also indicates that water is seeping through the roof’s structure.
Aspects to Know About Flat Metal Roof Maintenance
Metal panel roofs are one of the oldest forms of roofing system. A flat metal roof is suitable for any type of climate and requires minimal maintenance. However, maintenance issues with metal roofs are real. A common problem that affects metal roofs is corrosion.
Furthermore, the fastening systems used during metal roof installation can also wear out with time. You can search for roof repair near me to hire a roofer specializing in metal roof repair and maintenance.
The Fundamentals of Flat Roof Repair
A flat leaky roof can be frustrating. Here are the basics of repairing a flat roof you must know.
Locate the Leak
Locating a leak on a flat roof is more accessible than one on a pitched roof. Water that penetrates your roof can travel a distance until it reaches the seam. So, you have to be careful while recognizing the leak.
The Common Roof Repair Materials
After locating the leak, now it is time to seal the area. One of the common roof repair materials is EPDM. It is made from propylene and ethylene. You can also use modified bitumen to seal the leak. If you have a small-sized leak, it is easy to repair it. However, if you are dealing with serious roof leakage problems, hiring a professional roofing contractor is the best option.
Replacement of the Membrane
If the roofing membrane is severely damaged, you may need to replace it. One of the best ways to replace it is by seeking help from a skilled roofer. They have the know-how and expertise to replace membranes with specialized tools.
Is Flat Roof Replacement the Best Option?
Replacing a flat roof can be costly for residential property owners. In these scenarios, seeking suggestions from a roofer is your best bet. Here are certain factors that determine whether roof replacement is a wise choice.
- Age of the roof
- The magnitude of the damage
- The current energy efficiency of the roof
- Maintenance frequency
Flat roof repair and maintenance is a strenuous task and should be best left to professionals. If you want to repair your flat roof, contact Advance Roofing LLC at the earliest. They are a premier roofing company with immense expertise in repairing flat roofs in residential and commercial properties.