Flat roofs are a popular choice for commercial and industrial buildings for various reasons, including their efficient use of building space and the ability to accommodate HVAC equipment, solar panels, and other rooftop systems. Flat and low-slope roofs can also be easier to access than steep-slope roofs when inspections, maintenance, and repairs need to be performed.
In addition to their benefits, flat roofs can develop a common set of problems over time that may require attention from a professional roofing contractor.
Common Flat Roof Problems
Like any roof system, a flat roof can eventually develop problems that need attention. Drainage is an important concern because low-slope roofs must be designed to move water efficiently toward drains, scuppers, gutters, or other drainage points.
When water remains on the roof for extended periods, it can contribute to deterioration of some roofing materials and may increase the risk of leaks or other problems, particularly where seams, penetrations, flashings, or other vulnerable details have deteriorated.
If you notice persistent ponding water, cracks, blistering, tears, damaged flashings, loose membrane areas, or other signs of deterioration, a professional roofing contractor can inspect the roof and determine what repairs may be needed.
Various conditions can contribute to flat roof problems, including:
- Ponding or poor drainage
- Storm damage
- Improper previous repairs
- UV exposure
- Aging
- High winds
- Weathering
- Building movement
- Loose or deteriorated membrane attachments
Flat Roof Solutions
When your flat roof develops problems, it is important to address the underlying cause rather than relying on a temporary surface repair.
For example, a leak may originate from damaged flashing, failed seams, membrane deterioration, penetrations, drainage problems, or trapped moisture. The appropriate solution depends on the condition of the existing roof and may involve localized repair, replacement of damaged materials, restoration, recover, or full roof replacement.
Poorly performed repairs can create larger problems later, so roofing work should be based on a proper inspection of the existing system and completed using materials and procedures that are compatible with the roof.
When the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a coating system may provide a cost-effective alternative to replacement. Before restoration, the roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, serious drainage problems, damaged roofing materials, failed seams or penetrations, and other conditions that may need to be corrected first.
Different flat roof systems require different repair and restoration methods. A metal roof, single-ply membrane, built-up roof, modified bitumen roof, or other system should be evaluated according to its materials, condition, drainage, and compatibility with the proposed repair or restoration products.
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Members are independent commercial roofing contractors that perform their own inspections, provide their own recommendations to customers, and perform their own roofing work.
A member can inspect your flat or low-slope roof and discuss whether repair, restoration, recover, or replacement is appropriate based on the condition of the existing roofing system.
