Roofs are an integral part of any structure, and flat roofs are no exception. Flat roofs are a great preference due to their low-cost construction and easy maintenance, but like any other roofing system, they can still experience common issues. Here are some of the most common flat roofing problems that you should be aware of:
Leaks
Leaks often occur when a flat roof is not correctly sealed or watertight. This usually happens when the flashing is either damaged or not installed correctly. In some cases, the leaks may be caused by a tear or puncture in the roof membrane. These tears can occur when the roof is not properly maintained or when it has been damaged by extreme weather conditions such as high winds. Leaks can cause major damage in a short amount of time, so it’s essential to repair them as soon as possible.
To prevent leaks, ensure your flat roof is regularly inspected and maintained. You should also look for signs of wear and tear in the flashing or membrane. If you spot any issues, have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Ponding Water
Flat roofs are prone to ponding water — the accumulation of water on the surface that doesn’t drain away quickly enough. Ponding water can wear down the roof membrane, cause it to deteriorate, and create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
Since flat roofs do not have much slope, they are more likely to experience ponding water. You can reduce the ponding risk by installing a drainage system or adding slope boosters. Slope boosters are small pieces of material that can be installed on the roof to encourage water drainage.
UV Damage
Flat roofs are also prone to UV damage caused by the sun’s rays. This can cause the roof membrane to become brittle and cracked, leading to leaks or other problems. The main reason why flat roofs are more susceptible to UV damage is that they don’t have the same protection from rain and other elements that sloped roofs do.
You can install a reflective coating or white membrane to protect your flat roof from UV damage. This will help to reflect the sun’s rays away from the roof so it doesn’t become damaged.
Blistering
Blistering is another common issue that can occur with flat roofs. This happens when trapped air or moisture forms pockets beneath the roof membrane, causing it to rise and form blisters. As well as being unsightly, this can weaken the membrane and lead to further damage.
The leading cause of blistering is improper installation or a faulty membrane. The membrane used in flat roofs needs to be flexible enough to move with the roof and not become brittle or damaged.
To prevent this, ensure your roof is installed correctly and use a high-quality membrane that won’t easily tear or blister. You can also apply a protective coating to the membrane to add an extra layer of protection.
Roof Buckling
Roof buckling happens when the membrane shrinks and pulls away from the roof’s edges, creating an uneven surface. It can be caused by extreme temperatures or improper insulation. It can also result from inadequate decking or ventilation, as this can cause the membrane to expand and contract too much.
Ensure your flat roof is adequately ventilated and insulated to avoid roof buckling. This will help to regulate the temperature inside the building and reduce any extreme temperatures that could cause damage to the membrane. You should also ensure that the correct substrate is used for the decking to be properly supported.
Separated and Exposed Layers
Flat roofs typically comprise multiple layers, including a substrate and membrane. Over time, these layers can become separated or exposed due to wear and tear. This can cause water to seep through the roof, leading to leaks or other problems.
It’s essential to identify any issues with the layers, such as leaking or exposed edges, and have them repaired as soon as possible. This will help to reduce the chance of water seeping through the roof and causing further damage. Also, you should ensure the layers are installed correctly and regularly inspected to remain in good condition.
The most important thing to remember when dealing with flat roofing problems is to act quickly. If you spot any issues, contact a professional roofer like Transformation Roofing & Home Services immediately to ensure that your roof remains in top condition for years. We can help you with roof repair, replacement, inspection, installation, design and storm damage restoration in Marietta. Contact Transformation Roofing & Home Services today to get started!
