A leak in a flat roof can lead to eventual collapse and tons of property damage if you re not careful.
Problems with flat felt roofs.
You might be tempted to throw caulk at the problem but that solution won t last long.
Traditionally the only type of flat roofing has been felt which is notoriously susceptible to cracking and leaking the main reason for this is the fact that.
Also look for pulled or missing nails at the base s bottom edge.
Limited foot traffic across a felt roof won t cause any serious issues and it should not be pierced or damaged by any falling debris.
There s really no fix other than replacing the damaged vents.
The problems associated with felt flat roofing.
But you can avoid the bulk of these problems with regular maintenance.
Just like any roof a flat roof will develop leaks but since it s flat the water doesn t have anywhere to go but straight down.
If a flat roof is properly designed it will typically have a very slight slope.
Check to ensure the roof is in good enough condition to walk over.
These pieces should be replaced.
First of all we should clear up a common misconception.
Felt roofing is a highly durable option that holds up well to uv rays and excessive heat during warmer periods of the year.
Unfortunately this means that your asphalt flat roof has deteriorated past the point of no return and will need replacement.
Leaks and moisture probably the most common problems with flat roofs leaks and lingering moisture are issues that can be dealt with effectively as long as you stay on top of them.
If you need to replace any boards be sure to coat them with a preservative.
Replace them with rubber washered screws.
With this in mind let s take a look at five of the most common flat roof problems and what they could mean for your property.
Flat roofs aren t actually flat.
Check for cracked housings on plastic roof vents and broken seams on metal ones.
Flat roof defect 1 standing water.
In winter freezing standing water will expand causing more damage.
Water will start to damage your roof s material if it does not drain or evaporate within 72 hours and that means regular inspection is particularly important during winter and spring months.
Extra stress and damage to the load bearing structure due to the extra weight of the water.
Fibreglass flat roofing is a practical and reliable solution that addresses the age old problem of ensuring your flat roof remains leak free.
Care notes abuse of the finished roof as one of the nine most common problems plaguing single ply systems stating heavy construction traffic can cause scrapes cuts in the membrane and damage to the underlying substrate.
Common problems caused by flat roof ponding.
Degrading roofing materials particularly on older modified and built up roofs.
If you already have felt on the roof remove it along with any excess nails.
The most common problems are that rainwater outlets become blocked with leaves and other windblown debris.
This is one of the primary causes of flat roof leakages.
This is equally true in wetter seasons.
Roll the new felt out on the roof and allow it to stay on the roof for about 30 minutes.