Flat Roof Maintenance

The most common causes of flat roof damage are:

• Standing water caused by poor or nonexistent drainage
• Punctures or tears in the roofing membrane, typically from foot traffic or falling debris
• Flashing failures at roof edges and penetrations, allowing water to enter the building
• Aging and weathering of roofing materials, leading to cracks, blistering, and degradation
• Poor installation or repair work, which can cause a range of issues over time.

There are some maintenance tasks that you can do yourself to help keep your flat roof in good condition, such as keeping the roof surface free of debris, removing any standing water that accumulates after a heavy rain, and inspecting the roof for visible damage or signs of wear and tear.

However, most maintenance tasks should be left to a professional flat roof contractor. These tasks include more in-depth inspections and repairs, such as checking for leaks, repairing any punctures or tears in the roof membrane, resealing flashing, and reapplying protective coatings. 

Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs are essential for maintaining a flat roof. It’s also important to remove debris, such as leaves and branches, from the surface of the roof.

Flat roofs are maintained through regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs. 

1. Inspections: A flat roof should be inspected at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. During inspections, a professional roofing contractor will look for signs of damage such as cracks or leaks, as well as any areas that may be prone to problems.

2. Cleaning: Debris such as leaves or branches can accumulate on a flat roof over time, leading to drainage issues and potential water damage. Regular cleaning of the roof surface and clearing of drains can help prevent this.

3. Repairs: Prompt repairs are essential for maintaining a flat roof. Even minor issues such as cracks or surface damage can lead to more serious problems if left unaddressed. Repairs can include patching surfaces or adding additional layers of roofing material.

4. Routine maintenance: Creating a maintenance schedule and sticking to it can help extend the lifespan of a flat roof. This can include regular inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs as needed.

Yes, commercial roof maintenance can help reduce energy costs for your building. A well-maintained roof can improve insulation, thus reducing energy consumption and lowering energy bills. Here are some ways that commercial roof maintenance can help with energy cost reduction:

1. Improving insulation: Proper roof maintenance can help identify and repair any deficiencies in your roof’s insulation. Good insulation helps retain indoor temperature, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower energy bills.

2. Reducing air leakage: Regular commercial roof maintenance can help detect and resolve points of air escape that could be wasting energy.

3. Enhancing reflectivity: Some roof materials reflect more sunlight than others. A white, reflective roof install or coating can help reflect sunlight and limit heat absorption, leading to lower cooling expenses throughout the building.

4. Preventing damage: A leak in your roof, even small, can result in more heat and air conditioning escaping your building, causing you to spend more on energy. Regular commercial roof maintenance can detect and repair any issues, preventing further damage to the roof and the building.