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How Do You Fix a Leak in a Flat Roof?

FLOYD MASON • Aug 31, 2020

Repairing leaks on a flat roof can be challenging in several ways, but if your roof is relatively new, repairing damages or leaks should be your first solution. Flat roofs tend to have inherent design and installation particularities that can often lead to performance issues as well as a shorter lifespan. One of the most common commercial roofing issues is leaks.

Leaks in Flat Roofs

Leaks are one of the most frequent and common issues on any type of flat roof and typically happen as a result of ponding water that puddles for more than 48 hours. This water penetrates the flashings or seams or may also come from the chimney, drains, skylights, or other penetrations causing leaks.

If the water gets under the membrane and into the sheathing, your roof is at risk of developing mold and rot. This is why it is crucial to repair leaks as quickly as possible once they are discovered.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Flat Roof?

If your flat roof has been installed properly and has also been maintained regularly, and has started to leak, repairing your roof is the most feasible option. In other cases, if your roof is old, has sustained major damages, or is continuing to leak despite the fact that it has already been repaired, you may need to have your roof replaced with a new system.

It is recommended to use an expert roofing contractor for the best results. Attempting repairs yourself can lead to an endless cycle of repairs that you’ll need to handle every few months. You can save money and avoid the stress of recurring repairs in the long by utilizing a professional roof repair service.

Repairing a Flat Roof Leak

Evidence of a leak will usually appear within the building’s workspace. Factors such as frequency, volume, weather conditions, and location are some of the factors that need to be evaluated. The roofs surface also need to be examined, including the:

  • Envelope
  • Membrane
  • Flashings
  • Petitions
  • Gutters
  • Adjusting walls

Once the roof surface has been examined, the diagnosis will begin. A commercial roofing expert, who deals with these types of problems daily, will take into consideration the type of roof, age, underlying decking, and previous underlays.

When repairing a leaking roof, it is crucial that the proper materials are used to extend the life of the roof to its maximum use. With the experienced team of roofers at ACR-1.COM Commercial Roofing, we can repair your roof for leak-free, worry-free results using our Advantage Systems Commercial Roofing System.

This monolithic roofing system is installed in one seamless piece that is able to form around flashings and other objects without the need for cutting our gluing, eliminating weak spots where leaks can form. This system is top-rated in durability, flexibility, and strength, and with its reflective properties can even help to lower your heating and cooling costs.

Top Quality Commercial Roofing Repair and Installation Services

When searching for “flat roof repair near me,” be sure to trust the commercial roofing expert at ACR-1.COM Commercial Roofing for all of your roofing needs. Contact us today to learn more!

Repairing leaks on a flat roof can be challenging in several ways, but if your roof is relatively new, repairing damages or leaks should be your first solution. Flat roofs tend to have inherent design and installation particularities that can often lead to performance issues as well as a shorter lifespan. One of the most common issues is leaks.

Author: Floyd Mason

Born and raised in farming in Iowa

Worked in and around construction since 1977

BS in Corporate Finance and Financial & Estate Planning from Brigham Young University. Involved in Boy Scouts of America for more than 35 years, Scoutmaster 15 years Estimator, Project Manager, Sales Representative, Crew Leader, Laborer, Territory Manager, District Manager, Regional Manager, National Sales Manager,

ACR1.COM Sales & Marketing Manager since 2013.

13 Feb, 2024
Flat roofs can be a great choice for buildings due to their affordability and durability. However, if not done correctly, flat roofs are prone to water damage. Proper drainage is essential for the longevity of a flat roof, and selecting the correct drainage system is critical. Here we will discuss three common flat roof drainage systems - gutters, interior drains, and scuppers - as well as their pros and cons. Gutters Gutters are the most common form of flat roof drainage because they are low-cost and efficient when it comes to redirecting water off the roof. Gutters should be installed at a certain angle (approximately 1/4” per foot) to ensure proper water drainage. Gutters also need to be maintained over the years, as debris and leaves from storms or rain water can clog them up and create standing water. Pros: Low-cost installation and maintenance Easy to install Can direct water away from the foundation of the building Cons: Prone to clogging Requires periodic maintenance and cleaning Overflow from rain storms can cause damage to surrounding areas Interior Drains Interior drains are often seen as the higher-cost alternative to gutters. They are installed directly into the flat roof’s membrane and include a network of pipes that drain water off the roof into a downspout. Pros: Low maintenance More reliable than gutters in terms of preventing roofing damage Can be adjusted to fit any size of flat roof Cons: Expensive installation and maintenance costs compared to gutters May require frequent adjustments depending on the environment surrounding the building Can be difficult to install if the roof does not have the right slope Scuppers Scuppers are metal or plastic openings that allow water to drain off flat roofs. They generally come in square or rectangular shapes and are installed along the perimeter of a roof. The size and shape of scuppers should be adjusted accordingly in order to prevent water from overflowing onto the sides of a building. Pros: Easy and cost-effective installation Low maintenance costs compared to gutters or interior drains Can be adjusted to fit any size of flat roof Cons: Prone to clogging due to debris and leaves Overflow from rainstorms can cause damage to surrounding areas Can be difficult to install correctly if the roof does not have the right slope When it comes to selecting the best drainage system for your flat roof, there are a few things to consider. Gutters, interior drains, and scuppers all offer their own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to select the right drainage system for your needs in order to ensure the longevity of your roof and protect it from water damage. Flat Roof Repair and Inspection Services If you are looking to repair or replace your flat roof, make sure to contact a certified roofing professional who can assess your current roof and provide the best solution for your needs. At ACR1 Commercial Roofing, we specialize in flat roof repair and installation . Our team of certified professionals has years of experience working with flat roofs, so you can be sure that your roof is in safe hands. Contact us today to learn more!
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