Is it Time for New Flat Roof?

Is it Time for New Flat Roof?

By their very nature, ‘flat roofs’ only have a very slight slope and are likely to be in contact with, and therefore under attack from water longer than other types of roof. The integrity of the waterproofing across the whole flat roof surface is therefore essential. However, all roof surfaces have a natural life span, leading ultimately to deterioration, perhaps the need for temporary repair, and the need for replacement.

Common problems with <a rel="external nofollow" target=”_blank” href=”http://www.countyflatroofing.com/flat-roofs.html”>flat roofs include:

Symptoms from the inside

Leaks i.e. running / dripping water.

Damp patches at the edge of the ceiling.

Damp / water damage to walls and upholstery.

Symptoms from the outside

Pooling / standing water. Water can’t drain away, and stays in puddles.

Blisters, bubbles, damaged seams and flashings on the roof surface.

Cracks holes and loose fastenings.

Barriers to flat roof “first aid”

The actual source of the leak may be much more difficult to find, or more extensive that you think. The hole / holes may be covered by gravel / objects on the roof, covered by standing water / ponding, may be in a very inaccessible / dangerous area, may be up the (slight) slope from where you are looking, or you may lack the head for heights, the physical capabilities, or the technical know how and dexterity to conduct an inspection, let alone a temporary repair.

How To Avoid Flat Roofing Worries

Inspect the flat roof surface at least twice a year, from the outside, and from the loft area checking the edges of the roof for leaks.

Minimise other contributing causes to roof damage e.g. keep gutters / drains clean, tend to nearby masonry problems.

Avoid too much climbing or resting objects / machinery on the bare flat roof surface.

Try not to use temporary repairs that are difficult to get off when it comes to replacing e.g. bitumen / tar based patches.

Your flat roof can never be TOO waterproof so don’t waste time and money on false economy repairs and replacements that aren’t going to last. For example, consider replacing with an advanced modern membrane roofing system that has a guarantee for a long period of time.

If possible, carry out flat roofing repairs and replacement before the winter months come around.

Repair / replace as soon as possible after noticing the roofing problems, ideally catch problems early.

Call a professional, preferably a flat roofing specialist.

After replacing the flat roof waterproof surface, why not find a way to use and enjoy the space for more of the year? e.g. consider a green roof, garden / terrace roof, or put attractive timber decking on top of the new roof surface. Discuss the options with your chosen roofing contractor.

Watch this video about flat roof contractor

Before roof coatings can be applied, the roof needs to be as clean as possible to ensure adhesion. Remember, a roof coating only works when it is fully adhered to the substrate. In this video, the existing PVC roof is very chalky and dirty. Pressure washing removes loose dirt and debris and creates a clean surface for the primer or topcoat. Extremely dirty or greasy roofs should be washed with a mild detergent or degreaser and rinsed thoroughly. Let the roof dry completely before applying … Please help to answer the question about flat roof contractorMetal roofing on flat roof???
Dear, I am a Store owner located in Mechanicsburg,PA. We have flat roof over our store and I guess its old can i replace it with metal roofing??? We have all HVAC equipments on the roof, whats the best way to put a new roof, my store is 2100 sq ft I need estimates from roofing contractors
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Related Is it Time for New Flat Roof?:
March 18th, 2011 | by roofing contractor |

6 Responses to “Is it Time for New Flat Roof?”

  1. By Ken on Jan 25, 2010

    Don't be too quick to give up.
    First, check the terms of the warranty and see if it specifically mentions anything about a requirement to remove leaves. If nothing is written down, the roofer is liable.
    Also, compare where the leaks came through your roof and where the leaves were building up. If the leaves were on the other side of the roof while the leaks were elsewhere, your roofer is on the hook for repairs. Note that water from roof leaks often travel some distance away from where the original hole was located. And a lot of leaks occur around roof vents for plumbing, skylights, chimneys and valleys.

    You might want hire another roofing contractor or home inspection service to perform an independent assessment of your roof leak and use that information if you need to challenge your original roofer.

  2. By topink on Jan 25, 2010

    Roof pricing takes many many things into account. While the square footage of the house is 1000, the square footage of roofing materials needed to complete your project will vary depending on how steep the pitch is. The price will also vary depending on how many layers of shingle are up there now, if you need any wood replacement, chimney flashing replacement and what form of ventilation will work best on your home. You will need to have someone come out to your home and give you a proper assessment based upon the existing conditions.
    There's a big dollar spread, however, when it comes to roofing materials: Asphalt shingle roofs can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more per square (100 square feet, or a ten-foot by ten-foot area). Tearing off the existing shingles, which is highly recommended, will add another $30 to $50 per square. Metal roofing and concrete tiles may start at $100 per square, or run up to $600 a square and more for coated steels and copper. Ceramic tile and slate are always high-priced. Clay tiles can cost $300 to $500 installed per square. Slate, with its need for skilled and experienced craftsmen, could cost up to $1000 a square.
    Saying that $5000 to $14000 taking what I just said into account.

  3. By Nelson on Jan 26, 2010

    This would take a while but you need some trees.

  4. By bunny52 on Jan 26, 2010

    Probably between $4000 and $40,000+ depending on the type of roof material and the geographic region you live in.

  5. By crystal b on Jan 27, 2010

    Tile is about $25 a square foot for removal of old and installation of new. That assumes the tie boards below the old tile havent rotted out.

  6. By he1954 on Jan 28, 2010

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