A Maintenance Guide to Repairing and Preventing Flat Roof Leaks

Flat roofs are a common choice for commercial, industrial buildings, and even some residential properties. They are efficient and have a modern look. However, their flat nature makes them more susceptible to leaks when compared to sloped roofs.

Preventing leaks and avoiding the structural damage that comes with them requires proper maintenance and timely repairs. In this guide, we’ll provide you with tips to keep your flat roof in good condition.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Regular maintenance and inspections of your flat roof are a crucial part of avoiding leaks. Ideally, your roof is inspected at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. An inspection will look for signs of wear and tear, such as:

·       Cracks or blisters in the roofing material

·       Pooling water or accumulated debris

·       Signs of mold or mildew

·       Ponding Water: Puddles that remain for 48 hours or more can indicate drainage issues.

·       Cracks and Splits: Visible cracks or splits in the roofing material can lead to leaks.

·       Blistering: Bubbles or blisters forming on the surface can signal moisture trapped underneath.

·       Tears and Rips: Damaged areas can expose the underlying layers to the elements.

·       Granule Loss: Missing granules from asphalt-based roofs reduces protection against UV rays.

·       Stains or Discoloration: Water stains or discoloration may indicate leaks or moisture issues.

·       Debris Accumulation: Leaves and debris can trap moisture, leading to roof damage.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Clean the Roof Surface

Accumulated debris on your flat roof can trap water against the surface, leading to leaks. Because of that, regularly cleaning your roof is an essential part of preventing flat roof leaks.

Remove leaves, branches, and other debris using a broom or leaf blower. You should also clear your drainage systems to ensure proper water flow. Blocked drains, gutters, and downspouts cause water to pool, leading to a greater risk of leaks.

Address Ponding Water Quickly

Ponding, or standing, water is a common issue on flat roofs. Even a small amount of standing water can cause significant problems. To avoid this issue, your roof should have a slight slope so the water can drain off.

If you notice persistent standing water problems, it’s best to consult a roofing professional to assess drainage solutions or potential roof repairs.

Inspect and Maintain Flashing- Flashings are penetrations wrapped in a roofing material and the roof perimeter

Flashing is a crucial component in flat roofs for preventing leaks, especially around areas such as vents, stacks, drains, pitch pockets, curbs, parapet walls and perimeters and more.

Make sure you regularly inspect your flashing for signs of damage or deterioration. Any issues should be fixed immediately, and flashing should be replaced as needed. You can use high-quality sealants can also help to ensure that the flashing remains watertight.

Repair Minor Damage Promptly

If you notice any minor damage, such as small cracks or blisters, you should address it right away. Use a sealant to fill in cracks and prevent water from leaking through. For blisters, carefully cut them open to release trapped water, then apply a patch. Addressing damage promptly can help prevent further problems and costlier repairs down the road.

Call Rubber It Roofing & Protective Coatings Inc. for Professional Flat Roof Repair

While regular DIY inspections and maintenance are essential, it’s also a good idea to schedule professional inspections at least once a year to avoid leaks. A professional roofer, such as Rubber It Roofing & Protective Coatings Inc, can identify issues that may go unnoticed. We can provide expert advice on flat roofs and ensure that your flat roof is leak-free. Please reach out to us today to request an estimate.