Flat Roof Maintenance Tips to Avoid Drainage Damage
Most residential and commercial property owners gravitate towards flat-roof buildings due to their easy accessibility and affordability.
According to Globe News Wire, flat roofs have gained popularity, with over 34% revenue shares in commercial facilities.
This is because they are easy to maintain and enable convenient placement of HVAC systems.
However, regular flat roof maintenance is necessary to prevent drainage issues.
In this article, we discuss roofing expert advice for a trouble-free and durable flat roof experience.
Conduct Regular Flat Roof Inspections
Regular roof inspections are crucial in preventing drainage issues and promoting the longevity of flat roofs.
Schedule your roof inspections at least twice yearly to identify early signs of punctures, tears, or cracks.
These damages may cause severe problems if left unaddressed.
Regular inspections save you from costly repairs and keep your flat roof functional and waterproof.
Below is a roof inspection checklist you can use:
- Examine the surface of the roof for any damage
- Inspect the condition of flashing around skylights, vents, and edges
- Watch out for signs of excessive wear or water pooling in certain areas
- Test the integrity of the flat roof coatings and reapply if needed
Contract professionals conduct the inspections for more assurance, especially when dealing with complex issues.
Roof experts have the knowledge and tools to evaluate and ensure no problems are overlooked.
When choosing a roofing contractor, go for one with a good reputation and ample experience in the field.
Consider AZ Roofing Works, your go-to roof maintenance company, for its exceptional commitment to ensuring your flat roof remains in perfect condition.
Keep Your Flat Roof Clean
Leaves, dirt, and other debris cannot fall off by themselves on flat roofs as with slanted roofs.
Accumulating debris can cause structural damage and leaks if not addressed promptly.
This is why you must regularly clean your flat roof every one or two months.
Use a ladder to reach your roof and a leaf blower to eliminate as much debris as possible without putting much friction or weight on the roof.
A push broom may be useful if the leaf blower doesn’t remove all the debris.
Do this more often, especially during fall or if your roof accumulates a lot of falling leaves.
Additionally, having a clean, flat roof keeps off decaying materials that may cause potential damage to its finish.
Also, to avoid future blockages, you can install gutter guards that reduce the debris that gets its way to the drainage systems, thus creating clear pathways for water to pass.
Check for Leaks
Flat roofs tend to have various issues, the most prevalent being ponding water and leaks.
Tears and punctures in the roofing material are the major causes of leaks.
These issues should be promptly repaired to prevent roof leaks and structural damage.
On the other hand, ponding water occurs when water accumulates on the flat roof’s surface for a long time, causing leaks and deterioration.
To help mitigate ponding water, ensure a slight roof incline and proper drainage.
Furthermore, sealing cracks and repairing roof membranes are crucial in maintaining the durability of flat roofs.
Employ leak detection techniques such as thermal imaging and water testing to ensure leaks are identified early and addressed swiftly.
Prioritize Proper Drainage for Your Flat Roof
Your drainage system protects your flat roof and the entire structure.
A proper flat roof drainage system ensures the building stays in optimal condition.
It also protects against wear and tear caused by different weather conditions.
Some of the measures you can take to ensure proper drainage on your flat roofs include the following:
- Installing extra downspouts to help in efficient water runoff
- Using internal drains or scuppers to manage excess water effectively
- Regularly maintaining the gutters to avoid blockages
Additionally, you can install tapered insulation systems that slightly angle the surface of the roof to encourage water to flow toward the gutters, scuppers, and drains.
These insulation systems improve water drainage without having to conduct major modifications to the flat roof.
Additionally, tapered insulation systems enhance energy efficiency and insulation of your roof, thus extending its lifespan.
Utilize Roof Coating for Extra Protection
Roof coatings act as an additional layer of protection by preventing storm damage to your roof.
Some primary options suitable for flat roofs include polyurethane, silicone, and acrylic coatings.
Each of these provides unique benefits and is meant to meet specific requirements.
For instance, acrylic roof coatings are water-based and provide UV resistance, making them ideal for areas with significant exposure to the sun.
Polyurethane coatings protect against physical damage and foot damage.
On the other hand, silicone coatings are water-resistant and suitable for places with heavy rainfall.
Reflective roof coatings enhance energy efficiency in flat roofs.
These coatings reflect the sunlight, reducing heat absorption.
The reflective features of these coatings also minimize thermal stress on the flat roof materials, preventing damage and making the roof more durable.
Recoat your flat roofs every five to ten years, depending on the environmental exposure and type of coating.
Maintain a Clean Surrounding Area
One of the most crucial flat roof maintenance strategies is to control the areas surrounding it.
As much as trees are essential in improving air quality and enhancing the beauty of your property, they can wreak havoc if planted too close to the roof.
Ensure you have at least one yard between your flat roof and the closest tree branch.
Trim the trees near your building regularly to protect your flat roof from storm damage.
The proximity of trees to a roof causes moss to travel to the roof, damaging the material and leading to serious problems.
Seek Professional Flat Roof Maintenance From AZ Roofing Works
Implementing these flat roof maintenance tips is crucial in maintaining its integrity.
Be sure to address drainage and leaks to avoid long-term damage.
Engaging in professional maintenance and using roof coatings promotes durability and enhances the protection of your flat roof.
AZ Roofing Works has a team of insured, bonded, and licensed roofing experts who work professionally to ensure quality roof repairs and maintenance.
We offer free roof estimates and full flat roof replacements in case of excessive damage.
Contact us today for flat roof maintenance services you can trust.
Looking for Roofing Contractors in Phoenix, AZ?
Choose AZ Roofing Works for expert roofing services throughout the Phoenix area. Our experienced team specializes in reliable repairs, replacements, and inspections, ensuring your home or business stays secure and protected.
Call (602) 283-3383 or contact us today to get started!
