You may not know it, but if you have a flat roof on your home, there are some common issues you should be aware of. Unlike sloped roofs, which allow water to run off, flat roofs tend to retain water, leading to the formation of leaks and other problems.
By knowing what to look for and how to address these issues, you can help ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible. So don’t wait – keep reading for tips on dealing with common flat roof problems!
If you have issues with your flat roof, professional roofing companies can help fix them!
Membrane Blisters
One common issue that can occur with flat roofs is the formation of membrane blisters. Blisters happen when there is an air or water pocket that forms between the roofing membrane and the insulation or decking beneath it.
The blister then acts as a sort of buoy, causing the membrane to lift up and form a bubble. If left unchecked, blisters can eventually lead to leaks and other serious damage. Thankfully, there are a few things that property owners can do to help prevent blisters from forming in the first place.
Buckling Materials
One common issue that can occur with flat roofs is buckling material. This happens when the roofing material is no longer securely fastened to the deck and begins to buckle or warp. This can be caused by a number of things, including thermal expansion and poorly installed fasteners.
When buckling material occurs, it can create a number of problems, including leaks, premature wear and tear, and reduced energy efficiency. In extreme cases, buckling material can even cause the roof to collapse. As a result, it’s important to have any buckling material repaired as soon as possible by a qualified roofing contractor.
Poor Pitch
One common issue with flat roofs is poor pitch. Pitch is the degree of incline on a roof, and it’s important for directing water off of the roof and into the gutters. If the pitch is too low, water can pool on the roof and cause leaks. In addition, snow and ice can build up on a flat roof with poor pitch, putting extra stress on the roof and increasing the risk of collapse. As a result, it’s important to make sure that your flat roof has enough pitch to protect against water damage and winter weather.
Pooling Water
One common issue with flat roofs is pooling water. This can happen for a number of reasons, including improper drainage, leaves, and debris blocking the drains, or even just heavy rain. If water is allowed to pool on a flat roof, it can cause serious damage. The weight of the water can eventually cause the roof to collapse, and the water can also seep into cracks and gaps, causing leaks.
In addition, standing water provides a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. As a result, it’s important to address any issues of your flat roof as soon as possible. Taking action quickly can help to prevent serious damage to your roof.
If you’re planning to install or replace the roof of your commercial property, you might be wondering what material will fit your needs best. Of course, a commercial roofing system is a huge investment. Thus, it is vital that you make the right decision.
There are a huge variety of commercial roofing materials out there. Every single one of them has its own weaknesses and strengths. Lucky for you, we’re here to help. Before you hire commercial roofers Oakland, here are several materials to consider for commercial roofs.
Green Roofs
This is perhaps the most eco-friendly option you can choose. Over the past couple of years, green roofing has increased in popularity. For those who don’t know, green roofs are made of a layer of waterproofing material, filtration and drainage, a growing medium, and a layer of vegetation. Though plants may appear like a weird material for a roof, green roofs actually perform great when it comes to look, durability, insulation, and drainage.
Unfortunately, green roofs are costlier compared to old-style roofing systems. This is particularly true when it comes to regular maintenance and installation. However, if you really want an eco-friendly roofing material, this is your best bet.
Metal Roofing
It is difficult to say enough about the metal’s durability compared to other roofing materials. You should expect a metal roof to last for 5 to 7 decades or more once installed. This depends on how you maintain it. Metal roofs are also quite sustainable since they’re recyclable. In addition to that, a lot of types of metal available enable you to provide your property a unique aesthetic.
The primary disadvantage of metal is the high upfront cost. One of the most expensive commercial roofing materials out there is metal roofing. This is particularly true if you choose metal, such as copper. In addition to that, it can often be hard to look for commercial roofers that are able to handle metal roofs.
Single-Ply Membrane Roofing
Nowadays, most commercial properties use single-ply membrane roofing. Though the details of these materials differ, a roofer can install a single-ply membrane roofing by unrolling huge sections of roofing and sticking these sections using heat welding, roofing tape, or unique glue.
The two most common types of single-ply membrane roofing are EPDM and TPO. Both of these materials have their own benefits and drawbacks. For instance, both EPDM and TPO are quite durable and cheap. However, over time, they can shrink. Aside from that, they usually won’t last longer compared to other materials, such as metal.
BUR (Built-up Roofing)
This is also called gravel and tar roofs. The reason for this is that gravel and tar are used in construction BUR roofs. This is the most popular material used in commercial roofing systems. BUR roofs are made using alternating layers of materials. The most common ones are gravel and tar. Aside from that, these layers produce a watertight and durable seal that helps protect your building.
Unfortunately, most roofers nowadays won’t recommend BUR since they’re bad for the environment. They’re also difficult when it comes to roof installation.
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