Flat roofs in commercial and private buildings are a feature in modern architecture. Roofing contractors can advise one on ways to Waterproof a Flat Roof and other flat roof issues and solutions. Flat roofs are prone to maintenance issues, but with expert advice, one can easily prevent or correct them before they happen. Regularly checking and repairing flat roof issues can help to maintain it so that it is in good condition for a long time. Below are some of the problems one may face with a flat roof and how to solve them.
Buckled Asphalt
Flat roof asphalt seal helps to protect flat roofs from water and UV damage. With time the asphalt loses elasticity and buckles up. Signs of roof buckling and other areas of weakness checking and maintenance procedures should be regular, and the roof replacement process should also begin immediately in such cases. It is not safe to live under a buckling roof.
Roof Leaks & Moisture
This problem is particularly persistent in areas that receive lots of rainfall because of water pooling on the flat roof. Moisture in the rooftop can provide an environment for fungus and mold growth. That can affect the respiratory health of the people living in the building. Pooling water on the roof also makes the rooftop deteriorate fast. Through roof waterproofing methods, one can prevent such problems. Using single-ply membranes or elastomeric coating are effective flat roof waterproofing methods.
Cracks On The Flat Roofs
Slanting roofs do not experience as much pressure exertion on the surface as flat roofs do. Such pressure leads to cracking. Cracks expose the building to precipitation. It also compromises the structural design and may pose a risk to the occupants. It is advisable to replace the roof immediately one sight cracks to avoid the risks associated with roof cracks. Again, the effects of wind on a flat roof are more severe if you compare to a slanting roof top since a flat roof is only one sheet of material.
Damaged Flashing
Another common problem with flat roofs is flashing, common with most flat roofs made of asphalt, a material that expands or contracts depending on temperature exposure and changing weather patterns. Continuous contraction and expansion can cause pulling away of the flashing from the corners and edges of the roof. Through the spaces left, leakage on the rooftop can destroy the rooftop and walls of the building. It is hard to repair flashing problems, and experts recommend roof replacement.
Debris & Litter
A flat roof lacks a slope, and it encourages the collection of leaves and debris on the surface that blocks drainage. Again, the piles of debris, leaves, and litter hold moisture for a long time. Depending on the weather, the moisture retention may freeze, thaw, or unfreeze, and that vicious cycle may wreak havoc on the roof with time. The best way to maintain, repair, or replace a flat roof is through the help of roof technicians who have the experience and expertise to monitor and repair roofs. If need be, they may also recommend roof replacement. Flat roofs have a short life span. Precaution and professional maintenance procedures can help to lengthen its lifespan.
