In today’s blog, we’re dishing out some of our top tips for maintaining a flat roof! While energy-efficient, cost-effective and robust, flat roofs require a little more upkeep than pitched roofs to keep them in optimum condition. Making sure that your roof is routinely checked and issues are addressed promptly will all help it to last longer. So, what do you need to do to get the best from your flat roof installation?
Check Drainage is Adequate to Avoid Ponding
Time and temperature changes can cause buildings to expand and contract, which can influence your roof and allow water to pool; known as ‘ponding’. Signs of ponding include puddles or, in hotter weather, water rings indicating where water is collecting regularly. This can be minimized or avoided by ensuring there is adequate drainage in place to allow water to escape. If you have sufficient drainage installed, then you may need to check for blockages. Waterproofing your flat roof can help to prevent leaks from occurring as a result of ponding.
Keep Your Gutters Clear
Gutters can become blocked with leaves, moss and other debris, that can prevent water from draining correctly. This can lead to property damage to your external walls, roofs and even lead to leaks. Keeping your gutters clear can help protect your flat roof from collecting water, adding strain and unnecessary weight.
Don’t Delay Getting Flat Roof Repairs
If you spot a crack, split seam or any other damages on your roof, don’t wait! The longer reparations are left incomplete, the longer your home is exposed to potential leaks and at risk of further issues. Whether the damage has occurred due to age-related wear and tear, or external influences, it is important that you arrange roof repairs promptly. Things that can cause damage to a flat roof include:
- The sun – breaking down membrane material over many years of exposure
- Ponding – the excess weight and prolonged water exposure can compromise roofs
- Poor installation – using an inexperienced roofer can result in substandard performance
- Tools and equipment – such as ladders or scaffolding during other maintenance work
- Age – older installations will naturally be at higher risk of damages
- Nearby trees – sharp overhanging branches can potentially tear flat roofs
- Neglect – failure to keep on top of routine maintenance can result in damages
Tame Overhanging Tree Branches
If you have trees that overhang your flat roof, such as over your garage or single-storey extension, then it is sensible to keep them cut back. Sharp branches can cause, completely avoidable, rips and tears in flat roofing materials. This is particularly likely during high wind and poor weather conditions, where tree limbs flail around and cause persistent direct impact.
Regularly Clean & Inspect Your Flat Roof
Keeping your roof clean and routinely inspected is a great way to avoid complications in the first place. Clean away any built up debris and moss, which will reduce excess weight, avoid gutter blockages and keep your flat roof looking presentable. Also, check your flashings which, when damaged, are a prime cause of leaks in flat roofs. Finally, arranging an inspection by an experienced roofer can identify precursors and tell-tale signs of developing damage that an inexperienced person would not recognise.
Choose An Experienced Flat Roofing Company
Finally, choosing an experienced flat roofing company for installations, inspections and repairs is perhaps one of the most valuable tips for maintaining a flat roof. Salter Roofing has been servicing flat roofs in Exeter and Devon for many years and can offer a wide range of affordable roofing solutions. Call today for a free quotation.