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Flat Roof Repair Services: What to Know

Were you aware that flat roofs aren’t flat? Flat roofs slope about a quarter of an inch. Today, you’ll see flat roofs on commercial buildings, warehouses, and even some residential structures, and for a good reason. They offer many benefits. Continue reading for more information on commercial flat roof repair services.

The Popularity of Flat Roofs

A flat roof is one of several types of roofs. Still, it’s among the most prevalent forms of roof covering. Some architects consider the flat roof a mark of modernism, especially when compared to the sloping roof. The flat roof has been around for centuries in one form or another.

Flat roofs were unusual and only employed in a few specific situations in the past. This was because flat roofs were prone to water leaks. Eventually, however, builders discovered new waterproofing materials that solved this problem completely.

Still, you must maintain your flat roof properly—more on that momentarily.

Benefits of Flat Roofing

There are numerous advantages to installing a flat roof. A flat roof can enhance the aesthetics of a cityscape and provide a rooftop surface to walk on. For example, some businesses feature gardens on their rooftops, which can draw visitors.

Also, flat conserve energy. A flat roof is quite cool in the summer if it’s adequately insulated. During the winter, it will also help to keep the interior space of your building warm.

Drawbacks of a Flat Roof

There are also a few drawbacks to having a flat roof. For instance, if a contractor installs it incorrectly, difficulties could arise.

For instance, water could start to pool on the roof. Pooling happens when an inexperienced contractor doesn’t slope the roof correctly. Again, flat roofs should have a slope that allows water to drain.

Still, a flat roof is relatively inexpensive and will last a long when you care for it properly. If you maintain your flat roof correctly, you won’t need to replace it for many years.

Commercial Roof Maintenance: Finding Flat Roof Problems

To determine if your roof requires repair or replacement, you must first understand what to look for. If you discover an issue with your roof, you must take prompt action. It can become worse if left untreated over an extended time.

The following are some of the roof issues you may encounter.

Age

Find out the age of your roof. Some materials don’t have a long service life, and you may need to replace them more frequently than other materials.

Even if your roof has come to the end of its useful life, you can sometimes repair the damage it has sustained. Roofing experts recommend you replace your roof if needed to reap the full rewards of your investment.

Energy Bills

Also, you might look at your recent energy bills to see whether there are any issues with your roofing system. Flat roofs have the potential to conserve energy. A problem with your flat roof can cause a difference in your power rates.

Roof Leaks

Roof leaks are a warning sign you have a problem you must address immediately. If you don’t resolve the issue, you may need to replace the roof earlier than desired.

Visible Damage

As the property owner, you can do a visual inspection to search for apparent damage. This is much easier to accomplish on a level roof than on a sloping roof.

However, a roofing expert can perform a more in-depth examination. A professional roof inspection may help you find hidden problems and, if so, what type of repairs you require.

Flat Roof Problems

If you have found problems with your roof, you need to act immediately. Prolonging it can make it worse. Here are some of the roof problems you may encounter:

Split

Split is a common problem in flat roofs. It occurs when the material used suffers from cracks or tears. It can be due to weather conditions or bad installation.

You’d resolve it by having the affected region repaired by a professional commercial roof repair service. The contractor will clean and dry the roof before repairing it.

Experts solve this problem by removing the damaged area. After that, they will clean and dry it before putting it on the adhesive.

Ponding or Pooling

Ponding or pooling is a result of clogged drains or gutters. If your drains are not clogged, and there is still ponding, then the roof is not sloped.

If this problem appears, you need to treat ponding immediately. The moisture may seep into the roof and cause sagging and indents.

Experts solve this problem by elevating the roof. It will create more slopes that will lead the water to the drainage system.

Blistering

Heat-related blistering is widespread in hotter climates. It involves the creation of air pockets within the roof material that causes it to bubble.

If not repaired immediately, these bubbles will grow and pop to become a hole. Like splits, water may seep through these holes and cause leaking.

Flat Roof Repair

It’s advisable to do your repair with professional help. Some of the solutions for your roof problems are:

Patching

Patching is an effective solution to a small damaged area. It can solve moisture damage that is not yet spreading.

Re-Covering

It’s a solution advisable when there is no leakage and only mild deterioration. New materials will cover the damaged materials without removing them.

Roof Coating

A coating is effective in solving minor issues and minor damage. Professionals do this by applying a thin membrane on top of the damaged roof.

Tips on Flat Roof Repair

It’s essential to maintain the condition of your roof. A contractor would start by removing any debris accumulated on your roof. Falling leaves that might block your drainage system are an excellent example of common flat roof debris.

Also, the contractor may apply a high-quality coating. Early application of high-quality coating can help you avoid many difficulties in the future.

Bear in mind that you should conduct a thorough examination of the materials you intend to use. Evaluate the materials available to see whether they’re appropriate for your area and weather.

It may also prove beneficial to ask your insurance provider about coverage that might offset the cost of repairing your roof.

Preparing for an Upgrade to a Flat Roof

The repair process begins with a walk-through with the contractor to review the practicalities of installation and safety precautions. Afterward, the contractor will clean up drains, waterways, and the roof field.

They’ll remove material such as dirt, debris, leaves, loose gravel, and any other foreign matter at the base flashing of the parapet walls.

Let’s review the following stages in the preparation process.

Drains

The contractor will begin by discarding the current roof membrane at the drain and the corner assemblies if needed. They’ll then clean and drain all metal if required.

Next, the roofing contractor might install a #28 base sheet and a modified bitumen roof membrane on top of the base sheet. They’ll also reseal the drains with white flashing grade or microfibers and silicone, depending on the application.

Field

Now, the contractor will repair the flat roof field. They’ll begin by inspecting the field membrane and making repairs with modified bitumen roof membrane, white flashing grade, or microfibers and silicone to prevent further damage.

Parapet Walls

Suppose the contractor finds any fractures, loose seams, or displaced membranes on the parapet walls or base flashing. In that case, they’ll patch them using modified bitumen roof membrane, white flashing grade, or microfibers and silicone, depending on the situation.

Ponding or Pooling

The contractor will provide and install a modified bitumen roof membrane in severe ponding locations whenever necessary.

The Roof Preparation Phase

Everything has a limited lifespan. In some instances, the contractor will have no choice but to replace your roof.

A good roofing contractor can repair your roof and extend its lifespan in many cases. They’ll thoroughly inspect your roof to see what’s wrong and then make the necessary repairs. More importantly, they’ll ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

Let’s go over the steps involved in replacing an entire roof.

Pipes And Vents

The contractor will seal all pipes and vents with white flashing grade or microfibers and silicone.

HVAC/Mechanical Equipment Curbs

If needed, the roofing contractor will raise the roofline or deck level and reseal the air conditioning curbs and bases on the roof deck. They’ll use modified bitumen roof membrane, white flashing grade, microfibers, and silicone.

Skylights

The contractor will then reseal skylight curbs with modified bitumen roof membrane, flashing grade, or microfibers and silicone.

Pressure Washing

Before applying the finish, the contractor will pressure wash the whole roof. They’ll then reinforce the drainage system.

The roofing contractor will also replace your drains if needed. They’ll also construct a retaining wall along the waterway.

Reinforcing the Roof

In some cases, the roofing contractor may need to reinforce your roof. They’ll then reinforce the parapet walls. They’ll also construct a dam with fiberboard and reinforcing rods if necessary.

Pipes and Vents

Finally, the roofing contractor will seal around all pipes and vents. This step is critical for mechanical equipment reinforcement.

Primer Topcoat

Now, the contractor will apply one coat of Asphalt Bleed Blocker. They’ll use 1.5 gallons per 100 square feet over the roof surface, blocking all bleeds.

Silicone Topcoat

Next, they’ll apply one Premium Silicone Roof Coating coat at about 2.0 gallons for every 100 square feet of roof area. This compound is a high-performance, solvent-free, high solids, single component, moisture cure liquid applied silicone roof coating. It’s also Energy Star-approved.

Now, the contractor will allow time for the coat to cure.

Rooftop Walk Pads as an Optional Extra

Walk pads are bright and textured, making a path visible and safe. This texture mechanism helps minimize foot traffic accidents. If you select this optional feature, the contractor will install walk pads to alleviate wear and tear on the roof surface and guide rooftop traffic.

Flat Roof Repair Services

There are advantages and disadvantages to having a flat roof. What’s important is keeping your roof in perfect working order and repairing any evident damage quickly. You should seek the assistance of an expert commercial roof repair company to meet your repair or replacement needs.

Don’t make your decision based solely on the lowest price. Determine that the contractor you hire is knowledgeable about your type of roof.

It may tempt you to hire a less expensive contractor for your commercial roofing project. However, they may compromise the quality of your roof.

Make the right investment in the quality of your roofing products and services. Ensure that your flat roof service has adequate experience and will do the job right the first time. An expert roof repair service will keep you from having trouble in the future.

A Trusted Professional for Your Next Flat Roof Installation

HP Roofing Pro has you covered if you need flat roof repair services. We offer first-rate products and services.

Our experts provide commercial roof repair, roof maintenance, and other roofing installations. We’ll keep your project on schedule and within budget.

Don’t wait another day if you think your roof needs repair or replacement. Please feel free to contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection.