CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004 FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM
At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
HOW DOES HOT WEATHER AFFECT A FLAT ROOF?
Blistering
Heat causes most things to expand, including water. When exposed to the sun, the roof absorbs a lot of heat. If any moisture is trapped underneath the roof’s surface, it could expand and evaporate, pushing the surface up and causing “blisters” to appear.
Thermal Movement
During summer, temperature tends to go through a continuous cycle of heating and cooling. As a result, flat roofs tend to expand and contract, and eventually crack, thus causing leaks.
However, you can prevent your flat roof from thermal cycle problems by using breathable waterproof materials such as single-ply PVC. Not only is single-ply PVC 100% watertight, but it can also withstand condensation.
Warped Flashing
Just like the main roofing sections expanding and contracting due to extreme heat, the roof’s flashing can also get warped out of shape. In some cases, leaks in flat roofing can be caused by a badly warped flashing strip, even if the rest of the roof is in perfect shape.
Flashing damage is imminent due to moisture build up and fungal growth. Fungi or mold tends to grow faster during summer due to the high levels of heat. Damaged flashing tends to compromise your roof’s draining capacity.
Cracked Sealants
While most types of sealants are designed to withstand harsh temperatures, certain factors can cause your roof’s applied seals to give out due to hot weather. For example, some seals can turn brittle over time and heat from the sun can cause them to crack. Flat roofing experts recommend having all seals checked for signs of deterioration to see if re-caulking or re-sealing is needed.
Faulty Installation
Failing to install your flat roof properly can result to heat-related damage. What’s more, installing a flat roof too flat or using poor quality materials can cause the roof to sag in the middle, which allows rainwater to accumulate and create a pool.
Eventually, the accumulated water tends to find its way into the cracks or holes caused by thermal movement. With that being said, it is important that you use the services of licensed roofers, which will help to ensure your flat roof is installed right the first time. Be sure to use top-grade materials.
Standing Water
Standing water is a primary cause for flat roof leakages. If water does not evaporate from your flat roof within 72 hours, it is important that you drain it manually. Letting water stay on your roof beyond that time can damage your roof.
Issues of standing water are common on roofs that are too flat or where there’s insufficient drainage. Although it might take years for your roof’s damage to become a problem, regular inspections are necessary.
Regular inspections, particularly during spring or winter, help to ensure that leaks and other minor problems are addressed before they get worse.
CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004 FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM
Heat causes most things to expand, including water. When exposed to the sun, the roof absorbs a lot of heat. If any moisture is trapped underneath the roof’s surface, it could expand and evaporate, pushing the surface up and causing “blisters” to appear.
