Dealing with a flat, leaky roof can be very frustrating. Not to mention the fact that a leaky roof can be extremely detrimental to the overall integrity and value of an asset if not handled properly.
Sometimes it’s too late and you may not even realize there’s a problem until the inside of the building turns into a swimming pool due to a leaky flat roof.
Find the Leakage
Finding the cause of a leak on a flat roof is usually easier than on a sloping or tiled roof. However, any type of roof leak can be more difficult than it seems.
The first thing you notice water coming into an interior room may not be where the leak is. This is because water that seeps through the roof membrane can travel over the roof until it appears.
However, when you first notice water getting inside, whether it’s easy to find or easy to spot, there are steps you can follow to identify the cause of your roof leakage.
Roof Repair Materials
This is the most common type of flat roof repair material.
If you live in the United States, you most likely have one of the following types of roofs:
EPDM
It is also known as rubber and is a very durable rubber roofing material commonly used in the United States (and around the world). It is mainly manufactured from ethylene and propylene.
Modified Bituminous
Modified bitumen is an asphalt roof made primarily of asphalt with various rubbers and solvents heated by flames using a flared roof covering.
BUR
It is also known as a tar and gravel roof. A dense membrane is created using bitumen and reinforcing fabrics.
TPO Roofing
It is a single-layer roofing type made of polypropylene and EPDM that is polymerized together and installed in a fully bonded or mechanically attached system with a white reflective coating.
PVC Roof
This roof is made of two layers of a PVC roof with polyester between the layers acting as reinforcement.
PVC roofing layers contain additives that make the material flexible, UV resistant, and prevent hardening.
What Causes Flat Roof Leaks?
There are many reasons for a flat roof to leak. Common sources include:
Insufficient drainage
If the roof cannot drain properly, water will collect. Over time, stagnant water can erode the roofing material, making the roof vulnerable to leaks.
Old roof
Older roofs are prone to leaks because years of heat, sun, rain, and wind erode the roofing material.
Damaged Flashing
Improperly installed or damaged flashing exposes roof edges to elements, including rain. Poor adhesion can allow water to enter the roof system.
Problematic Roof Membrane
Tears, cracks, holes, shrinkage, and blisters in the roofing membrane make the interior of the roof vulnerable to seepage and seepage.
Stagnant water
Water is heavy, and even small puddles of stagnant water can cause undue stress and wear on flat roofs.
