There is a good chance that you have dealt with a leak at some point if you have a flat roof. While sloped roofs send water directly to the gutter system, flat roofs allow the water more time to settle and find any opening on the roof.
If you suspect your roof has a leak, arrange for an inspection and repair as soon as possible. Below are some of the more common sources of leaks on flat roofs.
As flat roof leak repair specialists, we hope you find this article helpful in understanding what may be causing your leaks.
Damaged Flashing
The majority of commercial roof leaks can be attributed to flashing, which is installed at the exterior edges of the roof and on the interior walls to protect the roof membrane. If the flashing is not installed correctly or is damaged by wind or temperature changes, the edges of the roof cover are exposed. Water can then seep into the roofing system.
Open Penetrations
Commercial roofs have several penetrations such as HVAC units, drains, pipes, and vents, which must go through the roofing membrane. Penetrations are susceptible to leaks and must be secured to avoid damage. Any penetrations should be inspected periodically to ensure they remain water-tight with the correct pitch pans, rain collars, and flashings.
Damaged Roof Membrane
The roof membrane protects the interior of the building from water. In older membranes, the insulation of the roof is exposed, allowing water a clear path inside. The membrane can crack, shrink, blister, or puncture over time. If the damage is caught early enough, it may be possible to repair the roof membrane, but a membrane that has reached the end of its life expectancy will need to be replaced.
Standing Water
When water stays on your flat roof for more than 48 hours, you’ve got a drainage problem. Each square foot of standing water weighs approximately five pounds. Having a 20-foot by 20-foot pond of water that is just one inch deep strains your building’s roof. In addition to the weight risk associated with ponding water on a roof, ponding water can also lead to leaks, rot of the roof membrane, algae growth, and damage to the reflective coating.
Ponding water is typically caused by incorrect slopes, sagging roofs, or drain clogs. If you don’t act quickly when you notice ponding water, leaks will occur quickly.
What Can You Do If You Find a Flat Roofs Leak?
A flat roof replacement in Florida is generally required when a roof has reached the end of its lifespan. Flat roofs come in many different types, and the type on your building, local weather conditions, and maintenance will shed light on the need for a new roof.
It is essential to perform regular roof inspections to detect problems early so they can be fixed before they cause structural issues and costly water damage. In case of any of these roofing issues on flat roofs, contact No 1 Home Roofing for superior roofing solutions to prolong the life of your roof.
Call us at 727-513-2402 to have your Flat Roof repaired or a new one installed!