Flat Roofs: Common Repairs That You May Face
Many commercial buildings can benefit from having a flat roof since it is easy to install and less expensive. However, over the years, this type of roof will require some maintenance. Some issues can be caused by weather anomalies and may need attention from a professional. If you have a flat roof or are considering one, here are a few repairs that you will need to keep an eye out for.
Buckling Asphalt
Oftentimes, roofing professionals will use asphalt membranes to seal flat roofs to reduce moisture issues and lessen the impact of the sun. Foundation settling and changing temperatures may potentially result in the material buckling. What this does is leave behind divets and pillows. A professional may remove problem areas and then reseal them, or the contractor may redo the whole roof in the event that the buckling is a problem throughout the entire structure.
Cracks
Cracks in a flat roof are generally a result of extreme weather. Sudden fluctuations in temperatures can result in the roofing expanding and contracting quickly, leading to a crack. Alternatively, the vast weight of snow may cause significant stress on the roof and result in a tear. It is imperative to contact a roofing contractor immediately in these instances since he or she will need to assess the building's structural integrity in addition to the exterior roofing.
Flashing Leaks
Flashing is placed along the edges of the roof to help reduce the chance of moisture damage. Over time, the flashing may end up pulling away from the structure, leaving gaps where water can seep in. To ensure that there aren't any surprises, a yearly inspection of the roof should be performed by a professional so that the flashing can be examined and any repairs or replacements can be taken care of, if necessary. One of the first areas in which you will notice problems is where the walls and ceiling meet, as water stains and leaks will occur here.
Pooling Water
Due to the fact that flat roofing is not sloped and unable to encourage water flow away from the property naturally, there can be problems with standing water. If you notice water pooling on the roof, it is important to contact a professional as soon as possible to examine the drainage system. In doing so, you can ensure that the water flows off the roof and away from the foundation with no issues.
For more information, contact a roof repair service in your area.