Flat Roofing: Common Problems and Repair Solutions

While flat roofing work well for many structures, they also come with a variety of common problems.
Designed to be simpler than elaborate slate, shingle and metal-style roofs, flat and low-slope roofs may suffer from leaks and damage due to flashing issues, seal problems and poor installation.
If you’re comfortable with do-it-yourself projects, however, you can rectify a number of these simple, inexpensive roofing problems using the repair steps listed below.

Common Flat Roofing Problems and Repair Solutions

• During winter and spring months, it’s important to inspect flat roofs for snow buildup. When cold weather persists, snow and ice can block drains and gutters, allowing water to puddle into “ponds.” The first and most important step is to remove excess water from your building roof. You can get rid of standing water using a squeegee, shovel or broom. Then, sweep the roof to remove leaf debris and dirt that may be covering cracked or damaged areas.
• If drains are not cleared and standing water isn’t properly redirected, your home or business may develop a serious roof leak that can damage attic insulation, indoor furnishings and flooring. If you locate an area of your roof where water perpetually pools, take time to pull up the existing rubber roofing material, bolster the underlying insulation and re-install rubber shingles and new flashing. Stressed about doing emergency roof repairs yourself? Call your New Jersey roof repair specialist at 609-712-8157.
• Many flat roof leaks occur due to cracks in the sheathing, which may be caused by normal weathering or material irregularities. If you encounter a crack during your roof inspection, (a) peel up the surrounding sheathing, allowing moist areas to dry, (b) squeeze high-quality roofing cement into the crack, and (c) replace the sheathing by tacking it down with fasteners. You may wish to apply two to three layers of cement to ensure optimal coverage and future leak prevention. When your repair is completed, use a garden hose to test the area—but only after the roofing cement has dried for 24 hours or more.
• If your flat roof leak is related to roof flashing damage, it may be caused by fungus growth. As moisture builds up in problem areas, fungus begins to grow and push away the shingles or flashing. First, protect yourself with work gloves and a safety mask to avoid fungus inhalation. Second, apply a recommended roofing fungicide at the source of the leak. You may need to use multiple fungicide treatments if buildup is severe. Finally, purchase a flashing repair kit. The kit should provide detailed instructions about replacing problem flashing, sealing damaged areas and allowing adequate dry time.

Let LGC Roofing Help!

If you’re comfortable that your flat roof was installed with care, the best way to prevent roofing problems is through regular inspections and maintenance visits. Call LGC Roofing professionals today to schedule your semi-annual flat roof inspection, or to inquire about EPDM roofing option.

Incoming search terms:

• flat roof problems
• roofing problems
• roofing problems and solutions
• flat roofing blog
• flat roof repair solutions
• Flatroof leaks in standing water

Related posts:

1. Metal Roofing – Common Problems and Repair Solutions
2. Emergency Flat Roof Leak Repairs
3. Tackle Your Flat, Leaky New Jersey Roof with EPDM
4. 3 Reasons for Common Winter Roof Repairs: Leaks, Water Damage and Ice Dams
5. 3 Common Roof Leak Locations – Prevention and Repair Tips