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Even though most would name leaking as the most common flat roof problem, other issues can develop on a flat roof that may eventually cause leaking as well as structural damage. Below are some common issues that need to be fixed to maintain the integrity of your flat roof.
Leaking Flat Roof
Unfortunately, leaks are very common problems in homes, schools, warehouses, and commercial buildings. However, there are a lot of issues that can cause a leaking roof. Whatever the cause is, leaking roofs can damage equipment or merchandise, cause mold to grow inside the structure, and lead to slip and fall accidents inside your building.
Leaks are an all-too-common occurrence in buildings with flat roofs. This is mostly because flat roofs tend to lose their ability to effectively shed water if not properly maintained. Once moisture is unable to drain from the roof, it’s just a matter of time before it finds its way into the building. Though roof leaks may seem harmless enough, they can lead to much bigger problems down the road if not addressed promptly and accordingly.
Exposure
Exposure is essentially the root of all flat roof problems. Since a building’s roof is constantly exposed to the sun and other elements, damage from the outside world is inevitable. No roofing material, no matter how durable, can last forever. Common flat roof issues include over-exposure to the sun, lightning strikes, freezing, hail, and wind damage or wind-driven debris. There are even less common exposure issues such as oil damage in restaurants or exposure from outside pollutants and chemicals.
Ponding Water
Flat roofs do not always provide the proper drainage for precipitation to run-off. Most flat roofs are constructed with a slight slope in order to allow for said drainage, but the lack of a natural slope can sometimes create problems. As a result, the water from precipitation collects in standing ponds on the roof. The weight of the ponding water will eventually cause the roof to sag and could even become a leak. The term “flat roofs” is a bit of a misnomer, as they are typically constructed with a slight slope to allow for water drainage. However, the roofing materials break down over time after being constantly exposed to a harsh environment. This problem and poorly functioning drainage systems may cause standing water on the roof. The pressure exerted from the ponding water will eventually cause the roof to sag. This moisture damage may even affect the structural integrity of the building
Buckling
Trapped moisture under the asphalt membrane will cause blistering. However, as buildings shift and settle, the asphalt membrane on top of your flat roof may begin to buckle. Cracks will then form on what was once a waterproof membrane.
Loose Flashing
The pieces of metal strips that are installed around vents, chimneys, and skylights are called flashing. Flashing is meant to prevent leaks. However, as the roof material expands and contracts with changing weather and temperatures, the flashing sometimes pulls away from the edges and corners of the flat roof.
Punctures/Splits/Tears
Flat roofs are prone to punctures or tears from storm damage. This is why roof inspections are especially important after a major weather event has occurred. Pedestrian foot traffic can also cause punctures, but restoration systems that incorporate proper walk paths can help avoid this problem.
