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FLAT ROOF LEAKING
When your flat roof begins to leak, it’s definitely not pleasant news. You’ll want to carry out a thorough inspection to determine the cause of the leak and make the necessary repairs to prevent water and moisture from causing hazards such as flooding, rotting, and mold growth.
The differences between sloped and flat roofs necessitate a different approach to finding leaks because the water flows uniquely with each roof. Sloped roofs have the advantage that the water will run downward, and you can easily follow the water trail back to where the leak is. With a flat roof, the water will flow less predictably, and it can go in any direction, so locating the leak is less of an exact science. Thus, it may take some special attention. As you look for leaks, you should always remember that the leak won’t necessarily flow where you think it should go, so you’ll have to be patient as you try to locate it.
When dealing with a flat roof, finding a leak is often a challenge. Flat roofs tend to develop leaks more easily because the water sits on the roof longer than it does on a pitched roof, which means the water can more easily go in places that it shouldn’t. This problem is especially profound in poorly installed flat roofs. However, flat roofs can last for many years when they are installed well and maintained by owners, which is why it’s so vital that you know how to take care of your roof and address any leaks that there are before they get worse. Finding a leak can be stressful, but with some simple steps, you can do it without too much worry.
Causes of Flat Roof Leaks
Your flat roof can leak due to a variety of factors, including old age. If your roof is old, some areas may have deteriorated and will likely fail, allowing rainwater to infiltrate your building. In most cases, flat roofs leak around vents and plumbing stacks or at the edge of the roof.
Other common causes of leaks on flat roofs include:
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Ponding water – When water remains on your roof for more than 48 hours after precipitation, it can lead to damaging leaks.
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Damaged Membrane – If your flat roof is made of a single-ply membrane, it can be susceptible to damage due to ponding water or roof traffic. A compromised membrane allows water to enter the insulation, causing more serious leaks.
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Roof Structures – Just like sloped shingle roofs, flat roofs are vulnerable to leaks around areas where a structure rises up through the roof’s surface. These structures may include plumbing vents, gas lines, pipes, and other building elements.
Ponding Water
Standing or “ponding” water is one of the most common issues faced by flat roofs. It is characterized as any water that remains on the roof for longer than 48 hours following precipitation. The longer the water remains on your roof, the greater the chances are that it will lead to damaging leaks. The roof should be designed with a slight slope so that water can easily find its way to the drain points. Sometimes we find that even flat roofs that were carefully designed in this way can eventually be faced with ponding as they age.
It is important that you regularly monitor your roof for any signs of standing water. Gutters, downspouts, wall scuppers and drains will lead to ponding if not functioning properly. Ponding is more likely to occur around large rooftop units because the weight of these structures will prevent the structure of the underlying roofing supports from working as designed, leading to ponding.
Be aware that, even if ponding doesn’t lead to leaks, it still represents a significant roofing problem. The reason for this is, as time goes by,the enormous weight of standing water will gradually make the problem worse. Roof leveling can resolve minor drainage issues, but more serious issues of ponding require changes to the underlying roof structure itself.
Leaks and Moisture
Another common problem with flat roofs is leaks. But since it’s a flat roof, the water doesn’t have anywhere to go but straight down. This means that the moisture can seep into the roof that may cause mold and fungus, or damage to the structure. The best way to overcome this issue is to get your roof inspected regularly so that it can be maintained every time there is an issue.
Damaged Roofing Membranes
Until several years ago, flat roofs were made of multiple layers of asphalt tar, roofing felt and gravel. This was an effective approach, but is time-consuming to install. So, nowadays, roofing membranes are the more popular choice of the business owners. These membranes are made of a very thin single-ply membrane, generally made of durable rubber. In comparison to built-up roofing these membranes are less expensive and easier to install.
Until several years ago, flat roofs were made of multiple layers of asphalt tar, roofing felt and gravel. This was an effective approach but is time-consuming to install. So, nowadays, roofing membranes are the more popular choice of the business owners. These membranes are made of a very thin single-ply membrane, generally made of durable rubber. In comparison to built-up roofing these membranes are less expensive and easier to install. But, like any other roofing system, these membranes are prone to damage as time goes by. Cracks, blisters, and splits are some common problems. These cracks and splits allow water to accumulate beneath the membrane and once the insulation becomes waterlogged, it will lead to difficult to identify causes of leaks. For this reason, you should get your roofing membrane inspected regularly for signs of damage.
Cracks in the Roof
Flat roofs tend to have more pressure exerted in comparison to sloped/slanted roofs. When this pressure becomes excessive, it can lead your roof to crack. As soon you see any crack in the roof, call a commercial roofing contractor immediately. Not only will a crack will expose the roof structure – or potentially even the interior of building – to precipitation, but it is also a sign that your roof is structurally compromised and it’s the right time to get it repaired or replaced.
Flashing
Like most other materials, asphalt flat roofs expand and contract with changing weather. With time, this continued process of expansion and contraction will cause the flashing to pull away from the corners and edges of your roof. The flashing faults will lead to leaks, and moisture can easily get trapped inside the roof. The best way to avoid this is to get your flat roof inspected regularly and repaired as necessary, because if the leaks become significant you will have no other choice except to get a new roof.
Roof Penetrating Structures
Flat roofs are vulnerable to leaks anywhere a structure rises up through the surface of the roof. These structures include gas lines, pipes, plumbing vents and other building elements. If you want to protect these features against leaks, different tactics can be used like rain collars, installation of flashing, field wraps, and pipe boots. Regular roofing inspections should be made for thorough check of all roof penetrating structures.
In many cases, flat roofs can leak when debris is left on the roof for long. It can block water from flowing down your roof or redirect it to other areas. Make sure you regularly clean your flat roof without pushing debris down the drains.
You may also want to inspect the drainage system for clogging preventing water from draining off your roof. Knock on the metal drain pipes using your knuckles and listen. If the pipe sounds dull, then there is some debris stuck inside.
Other long-term ways to prevent your flat roof from leaking include:
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Installing Flashing – Adding flashing to your flat roof will prevent leaks around chimneys and vents. Let your roofer also install flashing along the edge of the roof, ensuring it bends over the edge.
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Use a Membrane – A rubber membrane is typically installed on top of shingles to take the place of gravel on a flat roof. It’s a great way to prolong the life of an old, deteriorating roof.
Work with a Professional Roofer to Stop Leaks!
If your flat roof has already sprung leaks, it’s important to have a professional roofing contractor carry out a thorough inspection to determine the cause of the leak and make the necessary repairs.
