Common Flat Roofing Problems

Know the Signs - Avoid Flat Roof Problems

Get to know the signs of flat roof problems to spot trouble before it becomes a major issue.

		Standing Water – If water does not drain or evaporate within 72 hours, it will start to deteriorate your flat roofing material. Water on your roof means a leak could happen at any time.
		Blisters – Literally bumps or raised areas on your roof. A blister occurs when your flat roof membrane detaches from the layer below, usually due to moisture seeping in between layers.
		Bare or Exposed Felts – Roof traffic, debris blown by the wind and general wear and tear will damage your roofs protective layers of gravel and asphalt and expose layers below. Without protection, the exposed layers will deteriorate faster.
		Pressure Ridges – as flat roofing materials expand and contract due to repeated cycles of heating and cooling, adjacent roofing panels will push against each other and form ridges, which may crack, separate and allow moisture to get in.
		Cracked Caulking and Seals – Check along roof edges and around roof equipment for signs of dried and cracked caulking and seals.
		Flashing and Metalwork – Used to seal around roof protuberances, like walls and ventilation stacks, flashing can become bent and detached.
		Old Repairs – Flat roof repairs can last many years, but old or too many repairs could be a problem.

Your best protection against unforeseen problems with your commercial/industrial flat roof is to use a program of regular inspection and maintenance (at least annually) by a qualified flat roof inspector.