Maintenance is key to a flat roof’s lifespan, regardless of material, and catching and fixing damage early is one of the best things you can do. Patching a small puncture, resealing a seam, or clearing a scupper costs a fraction of mitigating interior water damage or replacing the entire roof, especially for commercial properties, where […]
Maintenance is key to a flat roof’s lifespan, regardless of material, and catching and fixing damage early is one of the best things you can do. Patching a small puncture, resealing a seam, or clearing a scupper costs a fraction of mitigating interior water damage or replacing the entire roof, especially for commercial properties, where damage can cause costly interruptions and unplanned downtime.
So what should you be looking for when inspecting your roof for damage?
Constant sun exposure dries out oils in the roofing membrane, resulting in surface cracks or deep slits. Additionally, trapped air or moisture can bubble up beneath the surface and lift the membrane. Shrinking is another symptom of UV damage, occurring when rubber membranes contract and pull away from perimeter walls, corners, or flashing seams.
The most common way to repair UV damage is to restore the water-resistant barrier and apply a top protective layer to protect it from future sun damage. However, the best repair method largely depends on the roof material.
Impact damage to flat roofs is most commonly caused by severe weather incidents, heavy objects, or falling debris. It shows up on the roof as surface punctures, circular indents, torn or split membranes, or compromised flashing. If you leave impact damage unaddressed, it can worsen and lead to further issues, such as water damage and interior decay.
Roofers typically fix impact damage with roofing sealants and repair kits, but the method depends on the roofing material. For example, on a TPO or PVC roof, heat welding a matching patch can fix the problem. However, on a modified bitumen roof, it’s best to apply an asphalt-based primer, lay down roofing mastic or modified bitumen, and then reinforce it with a final coating or touchdown layer.
Seam separation occurs after repeated thermal expansion and contraction, although other common causes can include aging, failing adhesives and heat welds, and building movement that pulls apart joined membrane sheets. When seams separate, tiny gaps let water slip under the roof’s waterproof layer, where it can travel along the roof deck and eventually into the property.
Repairs involve scrubbing away dirt and debris and cutting out any damaged areas. EPDM roofs can typically be patched, while TPO and PVC roofs are best patched or welded. Modified bitumen roofs are best repaired with flashing cement or a top coat.
Pooling water on flat roofs is a major cause of water damage, especially when it remains stagnant for more than 48 hours after rain or snow. However, pooling water on a flat roof usually results from an underlying problem, such as poor slope design, sagging decks, or clogged drains. What’s more, standing water can create heavy weight stress, causing leaks and further structural damage. Standing water may also attract pests and create an environment for algae or moss growth.
How to fix pooling water depends largely on the underlying condition. For instance, if drains are clogged, clearing them should resolve the issue. If the roof slope is the problem, tapered insulation can be installed to create a more positive slope toward drain outlets. Diversions that direct water around roof units or equipment can also be installed. Low spots on the roof can be corrected with roof leveling compounds or patch kits.
In most cases, flat roof damage can be repaired, but there are some situations when a replacement might be more cost-effective, including:
When is the last time you really checked your roof for damage? Fixing it now is better than fixing it later. Contact L&S Home Improvements today to schedule a free inspection. We provide full commercial flat roofing services throughout Southeast Michigan, including repairs, replacements, installations, and silicone coatings. Visit our website to learn more about our capabilities.
