Flat Roof Repair: The Cause Of Leaks

Flat Roof Leaks: Top 5 Reasons

Flat roofing is flat and does not have an incline. Flat roofing does not have steep slopes, so water is less likely to run off the roof. These are the top five causes of flat roof leaks. These problems can usually be fixed using commercial roof repair. However, replacement might be the best option depending on the roof's age and overall condition.

1. DAMAGED ROOFING MATERIALS

Flat roofs can be damaged and leak. After a significant impact, leaks can develop in built-up roofing materials such as modified bitumen and single-ply roofing. Cracking and blistering can also be caused by water pooling and wear. A roof covered with gravel may make it more challenging to locate the leak.

Leakages can also occur in single-membrane EPDM roofing materials, TPO, or PVC. These can be fixed with sealant or patches. To extend the life of your roof, it is crucial to repair damaged roofing materials immediately. To determine the best method for commercial roofing repair, consult with experts.

2. FLASHING OR LOSING COLLARS

Leakage is more likely for structural components that are routed through roofing membranes. Rain collars direct water away from open penetrations like drains, vent pipes. Other components, such as pitch pans, field wraps and pipe boots prevent water from entering a roof or structure. During roof inspections, make sure to check the condition of these components. Protip: Look for leaks in the area around penetrations.

Flashing can also be used on a roof to protect it from water penetrations. These metal components can direct water away and prevent roof damage from temperature changes. High winds can cause roofing materials to be lifted or loosened by flashing around their edges. When inspecting a roof, make sure the flashing is in good shape. Also, check for leaks between the flashings and the roof.

3. INSTALLATION ISSUES

Properly installing roofing materials is essential to avoid leaks. You will need to hire a professional like Flat Roof repair Omaha to inspect your roof and determine if repairs or replacements are necessary. Although any type of roofing is complex, some materials require special knowledge in commercial roofing and installation.

Modified bitumen, for example, requires a labor-intensive application of multiple layers. Torches-down methods can cause fire hazards. Cold-rolled technology calls for roofing tar. Installation can be more complicated due to the size of EPDM rubber roofing materials.

Additionally, leaks could occur from air pockets in rolled-out roofing. More recent roofing materials, TPO and PVC, require specialized knowledge during the installation. Spray-on coatings need to be applied evenly to prevent leakage. This takes a lot more training.

4. POOR DRAINAGE & POOLING

Leakages are most often caused by standing water. If roofing materials are damaged or loose, pooling might not cause a leak immediately. However, water that has remained on roofs for more than 48 hours can eventually wear down roof materials and penetrate flashing, seams or other gaps. Pooling can be seen immediately following precipitation or as concentric rings made of dirt from evaporated water.

Pooling can be prevented by ensuring that your flat roof is correctly installed and maintained. You can also arrange for commercial roof repairs. Flat roofing should not be perfectly level. A slope of not less than a quarter inch per foot is required to direct water towards the drainage. For drainage to work correctly, roof drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts must be clear. Standing water can not only wear down roofing materials, but it can also cause structural damage by adding weight to roofs.

5. DEGRADED MATERIALS

Even with professional maintenance and repairs, every roof will eventually wear down. A built-up roof can last between 15 and 20 years. Modified bitumen might last for 10 to 20. The composition and design of single-ply materials will determine their durability. EPDM, TPO and spray-on roofing can last for up to 20 years. PVC roofing can last up to 30 years.

Regular inspections and timely repairs can make roofing materials last longer. Materials can be damaged faster by pooling water or a lack of maintenance. This can lead to more roof leaks over the lifetime. The type of material may influence the likelihood of leaks. This could include membrane damage, loose collars or flashing or seams. 

These problems should be addressed immediately to prevent water damage to the building underneath. For commercial roofing repair or replacement, you can rely on professionals.