Flat roofs are a popular choice for many commercial and residential buildings due to their sleek appearance and practical benefits. However, like any roofing system, flat roofs come with their own set of challenges. At Taylor Roofing, we believe in empowering our customers with the knowledge to recognize and address common Flat Roofing problems. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the most frequent issues and how to fix them.
1. Ponding Water
What is Ponding Water?
Ponding water occurs when rainwater accumulates on roof surfaces for over 48 hours after a rainfall event, creating leaks, mold growth, or structural damage to roof surfaces. Ponding can result in serious problems including leakage issues and even leakage pipes or structural damage to roofing rafters and walls.
How to Fix Ponding Water
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Check Your Drainage System. Clear any debris that might be blocking the drains and ensure that downspouts and gutters are functioning properly.
- Taper the Insulation: Installing tapered Insulation can help redirect water towards drains, preventing it from pooling on the roof.
- Roof Crickets: These are small, peaked structures that can be installed to divert water away from trouble spots.
Read More:- 6 Signs You Need A New Roof
2. Blistering and Bubbling
What Causes Blistering and Bubbling?
Blistering and bubbling occur when pockets of air or moisture become trapped beneath a roof membrane and cannot escape, creating pockets that cause blistering and bubbling to occur. This can be due to improper installation, aging materials, or excessive heat.
How to Fix Blistering and Bubbling
- Small Blisters: For minor blisters, you can cut out the affected area, apply roofing cement, and place a new patch over it.
- Large Blisters: For more extensive bubbling, it’s best to consult with us. We can quickly evaluate any damage and determine whether more extensive repairs or even full replacement may be required.
3. Roof Leaks
Why Do Roofs Leak?
Leaks are one of the most common problems with flat roofs. They can be caused by various factors, including damaged flashing, punctures in the membrane, or clogged drains.
How to Fix Roof Leaks
- Identify the Source: Look for signs of water damage on the interior of the building and trace it back to the source on the roof.
- Patch the Leak: Clean the area around the leak, apply roofing cement, and place a patch over the damaged section.
- Replace Flashing: Damaged or corroded flashing should be replaced to prevent water from seeping in.
4. Membrane Shrinkage
What is Membrane Shrinkage?
Over time, some roofing materials, especially single-ply membranes, can shrink. Shrinking membranes may pull away from edges and seams, creating gaps that lead to potential leaks and creating potential gaps within them.
How to Fix Membrane Shrinkage
- Inspect Regularly: Regular Inspections can help catch shrinkage early. Look for signs like pulled seams or gaps around the perimeter.
- Repair Seams: Apply adhesive to any pulled seams and press them back in place; for significant shrinkage, replace affected sections of the membrane.
- Professional Assessment: If shrinkage is extensive, it’s wise to call Taylor Roofing. We can evaluate whether a full roof replacement is necessary.
Read More:- 5 Simple Roof Maintenance Tips To Ensure A Healthy Roof
5. Cracking and Splitting
Why Do Flat Roofs Crack and Split?
Cracked and split roofs may result from weather fluctuations, UV exposure, and age-related degradation, potentially leading to leaks or other roof-related problems. If this happens on your property then leaks and other problems could arise as a result.
How to Fix Cracking and Splitting
- Small Cracks: For small cracks in roof tiles or gutters, clean, apply roofing sealant, and cover it up using patches or tape.
- Cracked Roof Sections: For large splits in roof panels, Taylor Roofing’s team can advise on the appropriate action to take to restore its appearance and function. We can help determine what course of action should be taken by providing expert consultation.
- Protective Coatings: Applying protective coatings can extend the life of your roof and protect it against future cracking, which in turn will extend its service life and decrease cracking costs.
6. Clogged Drains
What Causes Clogged Drains?
Flat roofs rely on a proper drainage system to prevent water accumulation. Leaves, debris, and dirt can clog drains, leading to ponding water and potential leaks.
How to Fix Clogged Drains
- Regular Maintenance: Plan on scheduling regular Maintenance to remove leaves, dirt and other forms of debris from drains and gutters.
- Drain Covers: Install covers over drains to help stop debris from entering while still permitting water to pass freely through them. This way you won’t risk blocking off essential drainage channels for flowing through waterways.
- Check Downspouts: Make sure that the downspouts are free from obstruction and clean to ensure a successful drainage of rainwater away from your property.
7. Alligatoring
What is Alligatoring?
Alligatoring refers to a process where cracks appear that resemble alligator skin, giving rise to cracking patterns on a surface that mimics its structure. It typically occurs in asphalt-based roofing materials due to prolonged exposure to the sun and weather elements.
How to Fix Alligatoring
- Roof Coating: Apply a roof coating to seal the cracks and protect the surface from further damage.
- Replace Affected Areas: In cases of extreme alligatoring, replacing affected sections may become necessary to restore a roof.
- Regular Inspections: Make regular inspections to detect early warnings of alligatoring and deal with it swiftly.
8. Flashing Failures
What Causes Flashing Failures?
Flashing is used to seal joints and edges on roofs; over time however, it may corrode, crack, loosen, and eventually lead to leakage problems on a roof.
How to Fix Flashing Failures
- Check Flashing Regularly: Make it a habit of inspecting flashing around vents, skylights, and edges for signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Seal Joints: Utilizing roofing cement, it is possible to seal off any small cracks or gaps in flashing.
- Replace Damaged Flashing: For optimal watertight seal and durability, the damaged flashing should be replaced to create an airtight seal and ensure its watertight integrity.
Read More:- Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Residential Roofing Contractor?
9. Roof Punctures and Penetrations
How Do Punctures Occur?
Punctures and penetrations may occur as a result of foot traffic, debris falling onto the roof, or sharp objects striking it, which compromises waterproofing systems and leads to leakage issues on a roof.
How to Fix Roof Punctures
- Patch the Area: Clean the punctured area, apply a roofing patch, and seal it with roofing cement.
- Reinforce Vulnerable Areas: Use walk pads or protective barriers in high-traffic areas to prevent future punctures.
- Professional Repair: For significant punctures, it’s best to call in our experts at Taylor Roofing to ensure a proper and durable repair.
10. Organic Growth
What Causes Organic Growth?
Flat roofs are susceptible to the growth of moss, algae, and mold due to the accumulation of dirt and moisture. This growth can degrade roofing materials and lead to leaks.
How to Fix Organic Growth
- Regular Cleaning: Conduct routine roof cleaning to remove dirt, leaves, and any organic matter that might promote growth on the surface of your roof.
- Chemical Treatments: Use roof-safe chemicals to kill and prevent the growth of moss, algae, and mold.
- Improve Drainage: Ensuring adequate drainage can prevent standing water that contributes to organic growth.
Conclusion
Maintaining a flat roof can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your roof and avoid costly repairs. Taylor Roofing can assist with all your roofing needs from routine inspections to major repairs. Should any common flat roofing problems arise, don’t hesitate to Contact us and ensure your roof remains in top shape and protects your property for many years ahead.