The roof is one of the most exposed parts of a building and is prone to damage by rain, wind, and other weather elements. Every type of roof requires maintenance to last long, protect the rest of the building and its occupants, and remain aesthetically pleasing. Flat roofs require special maintenance than other types of roofs, such as pitched roofs, since they are prone to severe damage, especially by water. Below are some tips for maintaining flat roofs to keep them in good shape and extend their lifespans.
1. Have A Roof Expert Inspect It Regularly
Have a routine roof inspection for your roof at least three times a year. However, you can call an inspector after heavy rainfalls or snowfall to check for any damage. It’s good to involve roofing experts since they can notice some flat roof problems which you can’t. The regular inspection ensures that repairs are done immediately after a problem is noticed and prevents it from worsening. Also, it gives you peace of mind when you know that your roof is in perfect condition.
2. Repair The Roof Immediately There Is A Problem
If you notice a problem such as a leakage, have it repaired immediately. Delaying can worsen the problem, and you’ll end up spending more on repairs. Also, if you delay fixing a major problem such as leakage, you put your entire building and people who live there at great risk. Make sure to use high-quality materials for flat roofing repairs to ensure you don’t get the same problem after some time.
3. Clear Any Standing Water
Don’t let water stand on your roof for long. This water can cause problems like leakages, sagging roofs, and growth of moss and algae in the long run.
However, if water keeps on standing on the roof, it might be a sign that your roof has a problem that needs to be fixed. Common causes of water pooling on a flat roof include:
- Poor drainage system
- Clogged gutters or drains
- Improper flashing installment
- Poor roof pitching
4. Get Rid of Any Debris on The Roof
Flat roofs are exposed to all kinds of debris, including leaves and twigs from trees. Make sure you get rid of this debris as it can cause drainage clogging. They also cause extra weight on the roof, which can interfere with its structural integrity. You can trim the tall trees that hang over the roof if they keep on dropping leaves or twigs on it.
5. Check The Drainage
It’s not very hard to know your roof has a drainage problem. This problem may show in the form of water pooling in a particular place. When you notice a drainage problem, ensure it is fixed immediately to prevent water from damaging the roof’s membrane. If the membrane is damaged, water can get into the rooms just below the roof or into the attic, causing even more problems.
When you have a flat roof, you have to be very proactive in maintenance. These roofs can get serious problems when neglected. Always keep an eye on your roof and involve roof repair experts to check your roof regularly. Also, make sure any problem detected is fixed immediately to prevent it from worsening.
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