When it comes to flat roofs, it’s best to leave the inspection to professional contractors. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t need to know anything about inspecting flat roofs. Such knowledge can allow you to give more detailed accounts of leaks, helping the contractor diagnose the problem faster.
Tango & Gatti, a top roof replacement company in the state, walks you through the inspection process and lists the things contractors usually look out for when inspecting a flat roof.
Signs of Leaks: Damaged Flashing and Clogged Drains
Flat roofs are vulnerable to leaks because of their lack of elevation. This can result in ponding water, which, left unattended, can seep through cracks. In a healthy roof, water runoff is diverted away via the drainage, while the flashing and other sealants prevent water from entering cracks.
Leaks in flat roofs usually stem from problems with the flashing or sealants. That’s why contractors start by checking if the gutters are clogged or if there are any holes in the flashing. In some cases, the leaks are caused by rusty gutter systems that need gutter repair. Contractors also pay close attention to the door that opens out to the rooftop, as sometimes the door’s threshold transition isn’t waterproofed.
Membrane Degradation: HVAC Ventilation Systems
Next, contractors look for punctures in the roof membrane, which can be caused by a variety of factors–one of which is a blocked HVAC ventilation system. Leaks usually stem from either wear-and-tear or the blunt impact of high foot traffic. However, in some cases, a blocked HVAC ventilation system is to blame. The roofing membrane is subjected to the heat that remains trapped in the pipes underneath, slowly degrading the flat roof’s outer membrane over time. This, in turn, can lead to cracks and punctures on the membrane, leaving the entire roof susceptible to moisture damage.
These are just some of the common issues with roofs. Considering the sheer number of problems flat roofing systems encounter, it’s easy to miss signs of roof damage. That’s why you should only hire an experienced contractor for roof inspections.
Tango & Gatti is a top-rated roofing company on HomeAdvisor. As a testament to our commitment to providing quality service to our customers, we were awarded the Angie’s List Super Service Award in 2013. To get a free estimate, call (330) 303-4222 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Canton, OH.