The lifespan of a flat is determined not only by professional installation and the materials used, but how well it is maintained and repaired. Poor flat roof maintenance and repair will not only shorten the life of the roof, but can cause damage to the structure beneath.
The following are some tips to keep your flat roof in top condition.
1. Ensure There Is Good Drainage
When your flat roof was installed it was designed to have proper sloping, with enough drain spouts to handle environmental demands. One of the symptoms of poor drainage is ponding water. This can be caused be clogged drain spouts or an accumulation of debris on the roof. Over time, this can result in damage to the roof and leaks. Always keep the roof free of debris and ensure the drains are unobstructed.
2. Use the Right Roof Coating.
In the Colorado mountain environment flat roofs require the correct roof coating to prevent damage from heavy snow and ice. Forgetting to apply coating, or applying the wrong type of coating will reduce the lifespan of the roof. If you have questions about which coating is right for your roof, contact The Roofing Company.
3. Make Repairs Promptly and Correctly.
Many roof repairs do not adequately address underlying problems. Performing patchwork repairs may address visible problems on the surface, but this can lead to problems down the road. Most roof repairs should be left to a professional roofing contractor.
4. Address Poor Installation Problems
When a new commercial roof is installed it is often ignored for a period of time under the assumption that a new roof will not need to be inspected for some time. However, the symptoms of poor roof installation can arise quickly and should be addressed as soon as possible. Roof installation problems include:
- Poor installation of flashing
- Weak membranes
- Insufficient caulking.
- Inadequate drainage
If you notice any of these problems on your newly installed flat roof, contact a professional for a detailed inspection.
5. Remove Snow and Ice.
During the long Colorado winters, snow and ice accumulation can seriously damage flat roofs. On flat roofs, the freeze and thaw cycle can result in ponding and roof damage. Flat roof snow removal should be performed by a professional.
6. Ensure There Is Good Roof Ventilation
A top concern with flat roofs is adequate ventilation. Without good ventilation excess moisture can lead to mold, mildew and decay. If you see signs of poor ventilation have a roofing professional inspect the roof.
Have questions about maintaining and repairing your flat roof? Call The Roofing Company. We can help with all your commercial roofing needs.