Have you ever noticed how buildings with flat roofs appear sleek and contemporary? They are well-liked by both homeowners and architects. The problem is that even while they seem fantastic, they can be difficult to maintain.
Maybe after a downpour, you noticed a small pond up there or leaked. This guide will go over several common problems with flat roofs and how to fix them. Think of it as your handy manual for keeping your roof in excellent condition. So pour yourself a cup of coffee and get ready to start!
1. Water Pooling
A sloping roof lets water slide off it. However, flat roofs are not allowed to have that luxury. They are more like to a tabletop in that the water does not quickly drain when it rains.
You won’t let a few puddles ruin your day here or there. But, you should be cautious if you discover miniature lakes that persist for several days following a downpour. A stagnant pool is the perfect home for mosquitoes; all that standing water can eventually erode your roof.
Therefore, it could be time to intervene if you observe that water is still there after a rainstorm for more than a few days.
Roof coating can be a game-changer when it comes to combating pooling. These liquid-applied solutions create a seamless, waterproof layer that can help guide water towards your drainage systems.
2. Drainage
A flat roof may appear level to the human eye, but a properly designed one should have a little slope to direct water toward drains or scuppers. You should expect a watery nightmare when these systems fail or become blocked.
Regular maintenance is essential here. Make it a practice to check your drains and gutters for debris, especially after a storm or in the fall when leaves are on the move. For a more permanent solution, try adding more drainage points or upgrading to a larger gutter system.
3. Flashing
The metal strips that run along the joints and edges of your roof do a good job of keeping water out. Occasionally review your flashing. Keep an eye out for any indications of damage, patches where it’s hiding from the surface of your roof, or openings large enough for water to seep through.
If you spot any issues, don’t wait to address them. Silicone Roof Coating Los Angeles experts often recommend resealing or replacing damaged flashing to prevent minor problems from turning into major headaches.
4. The Membrane
Your roof’s membrane is the first line of defence against the elements. Your single-ply membrane, whether EPDM, TPO or another type, will deteriorate with time. UV radiation, temperature variations, and regular foot traffic can all cause damage.
Routine inspections are your best friend. Check for cracks, blisters, and seam separation. Small flaws can usually be repaired, but severe damage may require a full membrane replacement.
Conclusion
With flat roofs, a little prudence goes a long way. Watch out for your roof, take care of small problems before they bring their troublesome companions, and don’t hesitate to get expert assistance when you can’t do it yourself.
Keep in mind that your roof protects you from the elements regularly by acting as a silent watchdog. Occasionally showing it some affection is the least you can do. So why not get up on a ladder and quickly inspect your roof?
